US suspends permanent residency program for Microsoft, Adobe and other tech companies

The United States government has suspended a key permanent residency program for seven major technology companies, including Microsoft and Adobe, following allegations of fraud related to H-1B worker visas. The Department of Labor has initiated investigations into these firms, citing concerns over potential abuses of the PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) process, which is a critical step for foreign workers seeking green cards. The suspension effectively halts the processing of labor certification applications for these organizations while authorities review their hiring practices. Industry experts suggest this move could significantly impact the ability of these tech giants to retain international talent, as the PERM process is essential for transitioning employees from temporary work visas to permanent residency. The companies involved are currently cooperating with federal officials, though the duration of the suspension remains uncertain, creating a period of instability for thousands of affected employees.