US Bars Microsoft From Sponsoring Foreign Workers for Green Cards

The United States government has prohibited Microsoft from sponsoring new foreign workers for permanent residency, known as green cards. This action follows allegations by US authorities that the company misused a specific immigration program. Microsoft has formally contested these claims, arguing that it complied with all regulations. The dispute centers on the interpretation of rules for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The ban currently halts new applications but does not affect existing employees with pending petitions.