India Unites with China, South Korea, Philippines, Taiwan, Pakistan, and More as US Proposes a New Reform to Crack Down on H-1B Visas and Overhaul Immigration Policies: Everything You Need to Know

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Along with China, South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan, Pakistan, and a number of other countries, India is also confronting the possible consequences of this major policy change as the US administration suggests a new reform to tighten down on the H-1B visa program. With nations like India among the biggest beneficiaries of this program, the planned reform of US immigration laws, especially the H-1B visa system, is expected to change the landscape for skilled foreign workers. The Ending Exploitative Imported Labour Exemptions Act (EXILE Act), which is driving the change, intends to significantly lower the number of foreign professionals who enter the US on an H-1B visa. Concerns have been raised by this action in a number of international economic sectors, particularly in technology and healthcare, which significantly depend on foreign expertise. These nations may see significant shifts in their capacity to provide labour to US businesses if the US re-examines its immigration policies, which would eventually impact global business dynamics, travel trends, and international labour mobility.

The H-1B visa program has long been a lifeline for skilled workers looking to work in the United States, especially those from countries like India, China, and the Philippines. The program has been essential in bringing talent to the US, especially in sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering. However, the US government is now considering major changes to the H-1B visa program, which could reshape the future of immigration, international travel, and global business mobility. Representative Greg Steube recently introduced the Ending Exploitative Imported Labour Exemptions Act, or EXILE Act, which aims to end the H-1B visa program. This bill could have far-reaching effects not just for workers but also for the travel and tourism industries worldwide.

Why the EXILE Act is being introduced, how it might affect countries like India, China, and others, and what the changes mean for global travel and tourism. If you’ve ever wondered how US visa policies influence international travel, business, and tourism, this article is for you.

What Is the H-1B Visa Program and Why Does It Matter?

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The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that require highly skilled knowledge. To qualify, the worker must have at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in the field of work. The program has been especially important for the US tech industry, which faces a constant demand for qualified professionals in areas like software development, data science, cybersecurity, and engineering.

The visa isn’t just a ticket to work; it’s also a pathway for international workers to travel and live in the US for extended periods. Many workers on H-1B visas frequently travel for business or personal reasons, and their mobility influences global travel patterns, hotel bookings, flights, and other tourism-related services.

Since its inception, the H-1B visa has been crucial in filling skill gaps in the US workforce, particularly in the technology sector. Professionals from countries like India, China, and the Philippines have been particularly successful in securing these visas, and they play vital roles in many US companies. The US economy has benefited greatly from the contributions of these workers.

How the EXILE Act Could End the H-1B Visa Program

The EXILE Act, introduced by Rep. Greg Steube (R-Fla.), seeks to eliminate the H-1B visa program altogether. Rep. Steube has argued that the H-1B visa system has allowed companies to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labour, which, according to him, undermines the prosperity and well-being of US citizens.

If passed, the EXILE Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to end the H-1B visa program by fiscal year 2027. This would mean that fewer foreign professionals would be able to take up jobs in the US, particularly in industries that heavily rely on foreign talent, such as the tech industry. The changes would have significant implications not only for US workers but also for international workers, especially from countries like India and China, who make up the bulk of H-1B visa recipients.

India’s Role in the H-1B Visa Program

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India has been the largest beneficiary of the H-1B visa program. According to the latest data from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a staggering 71% of all approved H-1B visa beneficiaries are from India. As of November 2024, 283,397 Indian nationals were granted H-1B visas. This massive number highlights India’s strong presence in the US workforce, especially in the technology sector. Many of India’s brightest and most skilled workers travel to the US to work in the IT, software development, and data science industries.

The end of the H-1B visa program would have a profound impact on India. Thousands of Indian professionals would no longer be able to work in the US, which could lead to a significant brain drain. These workers have contributed greatly to the growth of US technology companies, and their departure would leave a noticeable gap.

China and Other Countries: The Impact of the EXILE Act

While India dominates the H-1B visa program, China also represents a large portion of H-1B beneficiaries. With 46,680 approved H-1B beneficiaries, China ranks second after India, making up 11.7% of the total number of approved visas. Chinese nationals have played a significant role in US industries, particularly in fields like engineering, research, and technology.

Countries such as the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Pakistan, and Brazil also benefit from the H-1B program, although their contributions are smaller. The Philippines makes up 1.3% of the total, with 5,248 approved H-1B beneficiaries, while countries like South Korea (1%), Taiwan (less than 1%), and Pakistan (less than 1%) have a growing number of professionals in the US job market.

If the H-1B visa program ends, these countries would experience a decline in the number of workers who are able to enter the US. This would not only affect the individuals who are currently in the US on H-1B visas but also those who are hoping to apply in the future. The impact would be felt globally, as these workers contribute to US innovation and business development. They would need to find opportunities in other countries with more flexible immigration policies, like Canada or the UK, which could also affect global travel trends.

What Does This Mean for Travel and Tourism?

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The EXILE Act would likely lead to a decrease in international travel to the US. H-1B visa holders frequently travel for business, holidays, and family visits, making them an important segment of global travellers. Without the H-1B visa program, there would be fewer professionals travelling to the US for work-related purposes, which could result in fewer hotel bookings, reduced demand for rental cars, and less spending on leisure activities during their stays.

The proposed EXILE Act and recent visa policy changes are set to fuel the US tourism earning. Foreign professionals on H-1B visas not only contribute to the workforce but also drive travel to the US. For example, they travel for business, family visits, and vacations. If the H-1B program is ended, these travel patterns could change drastically.

In 2025, the US saw a 6% decline in international visitors, marking a significant drop for the first time since the pandemic. While visa costs have increased, the main reason behind the downturn is stricter government policies, like longer visa processing times and higher scrutiny of applications. A $250 visa integrity fee, alongside a total cost of $442 for some visas, has made it harder for international visitors to plan their trips to the US.

These policy changes have led many potential visitors from India and China—two of the biggest contributors to US tourism—to reconsider travelling to the US. Countries with easier visa processes, like Canada and the UK, are becoming more attractive alternatives.

The tourism industry in the US has long benefited from business tourism, with large numbers of international professionals attending conferences, meetings, and events across the country. If fewer foreign professionals are able to come to the US, this could lead to a reduction in business-related travel, which is a significant contributor to the tourism economy.

In addition to business travel, family visits by H-1B holders would also be affected. Many H-1B workers come to the US with their families and travel back home regularly to visit relatives. The end of the program would reduce these movements, leading to a decline in international flights and bookings for family-friendly hotels and accommodation.

Potential Impact on US Businesses

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The H-1B visa program has been crucial for businesses, especially in the tech and healthcare sectors, that rely on foreign talent to fill critical roles. Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and other major companies in the US have long relied on the skills of H-1B workers to fill positions that are difficult to staff with domestic workers. These companies depend on the ability to bring in foreign talent to maintain their competitive edge in a global economy.

Many professionals with H-1B visas travel for work or bring their families to the US. If fewer skilled workers can enter the country, there will be fewer business trips, family visits, and leisure travel. This will directly affect tourism revenue in the US, particularly in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco.

In 2024, international visitors spent approximately $181 billion in the US, with business tourism contributing significantly. This spending supported jobs in hotels, transportation, and tourist attractions. If the number of visitors continues to drop, those sectors will feel the impact, leading to fewer jobs and less revenue.

Without the H-1B visa program, these businesses would be forced to find alternative solutions, such as increasing domestic training or outsourcing jobs abroad. However, neither of these options would be as efficient or cost-effective as relying on the H-1B program. In the long run, US businesses could face a talent shortage that hinders their ability to innovate and grow.

Global Labour Mobility: Canada, the UK, and Other Alternatives

The introduction of the EXILE Act raises a broader question about the future of global labour mobility. If the US closes the door to foreign talent, other countries will likely step in to fill the void. Canada, for instance, has already introduced more welcoming immigration policies for skilled workers, making it an attractive destination for H-1B visa holders who are seeking opportunities outside the US. Similarly, the UK has streamlined its immigration processes to attract skilled professionals, offering another option for those affected by the potential end of the H-1B program.

Countries that can provide a clear path to work visas and residency will likely see an influx of skilled workers, while the US may struggle to meet its labour needs. This could shift global talent flows, with workers from countries like India, China, and the Philippines looking to Canada or the UK for new opportunities.

Fewer Jobs, Smaller Economies

Tourism supports millions of jobs in the US, including those in hospitality, airlines, and local services. As international visitors decline, these jobs are at risk. Foreign visitor spending dropped by 4.2% in 2025. Cities that depend on tourism, like Orlando, Los Angeles, and New York, are seeing less revenue as a result. Fewer visitors mean fewer jobs and less income for local economies.

Global Competition for Talent and Tourists

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With the US tightening its visa policies, countries like Canada and Australia are positioning themselves as more attractive options for skilled workers and tourists. Canada has streamlined its immigration processes, making it easier for professionals from India and China to work and travel there. As the US loses its appeal, countries with friendlier policies are seeing a boost in both business tourism and skilled migration.

As the EXILE Act aims to end the H-1B visa program in the US, several countries are already offering similar visa programs to attract skilled professionals, including those from India, China, South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Pakistan. If the EXILE Act passes, it could drive a shift in global talent flows, with more professionals looking to work in these countries, which provide pathways similar to the US’s H-1B visa.

Canada – A Rising Star for Skilled Professionals

With the potential end of the H-1B visa in the US, Canada stands to gain a significant influx of skilled workers, particularly from India and China. The Global Talent Stream allows highly skilled professionals in tech, engineering, and healthcare to quickly obtain work permits. Canada’s Express Entry system also provides an easy route to permanent residency, making it an attractive destination for foreign workers seeking a stable, long-term future. Canada’s open immigration policies give it a strong competitive edge, particularly for those professionals who were previously reliant on the US for opportunities.

United Kingdom – Skilled Worker & Global Talent Visas

The UK is positioning itself as an appealing alternative to the US for skilled workers. With its Skilled Worker Visa, the UK has created an attractive program for professionals in IT, engineering, science, and finance. The Global Talent Visa further strengthens the UK’s appeal by targeting leaders and emerging talents in industries such as technology and research. As the US tightens its visa system, many professionals, especially from India and China, are likely to turn to the UK for career opportunities, potentially increasing the country’s share of global talent.

Germany – EU Blue Card and Highly Skilled Worker Visas

Germany, a key player in the European Union, offers the EU Blue Card, which is designed to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. The Blue Card is especially beneficial for professionals in engineering, technology, and IT, sectors that are currently popular among Indian and Chinese workers. With the EXILE Act potentially eliminating the US’s H-1B program, Germany’s EU Blue Card could see a surge in applications, providing skilled workers with easy access to Germany and potentially other EU countries.

Australia – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) and Skilled Migration

Australia’s Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and Skilled Migration program have long attracted professionals, particularly from India, China, and the Philippines. The TSS Visa enables employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers for up to four years, and after a few years of working in Australia, individuals can apply for permanent residency. With the US becoming a more difficult place to access through the EXILE Act, professionals are likely to look to Australia as a welcoming alternative with its pathways to permanent residency.

Singapore – Employment Pass & Tech Visas

Singapore’s Employment Pass is another example of a visa that could benefit from the EXILE Act. This visa is designed for foreign professionals with skills in IT, finance, and engineering, offering both short-term work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency. Additionally, Singapore’s Tech Pass is tailored specifically for highly skilled tech professionals, providing an attractive opportunity for those impacted by changes to the US’s visa program.

European Union – EU Blue Card and National Work Visas

The EU Blue Card is a visa designed for non-EU nationals with high-level skills. While Germany has been the leader in promoting this program, countries like France, Spain, and the Netherlands are also participating. The EU’s focus on attracting highly skilled workers, especially in technology, engineering, and science, positions it as an attractive alternative for professionals who may face uncertainty in the US due to the proposed H-1B reforms.

UAE – Green Visa and Employment Visas

The UAE has introduced its Green Visa, designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, and freelancers without the need for traditional employer sponsorship. This visa is particularly attractive for workers in tech, finance, and engineering, and is set to benefit Indian, Chinese, and Pakistani workers who might be impacted by the US’s proposed visa restrictions.

As the US proposes a new reform to crack down on H-1B visas, India unites with China, South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan, Pakistan, and more in facing significant impacts. This overhaul aims to reshape immigration policies and limit skilled foreign workers.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for H-1B Visa Holders and the US Travel Industry

The proposed changes to the H-1B visa program through the EXILE Act will have far-reaching consequences for foreign workers, US businesses, and the global travel industry. India, China, and other countries that contribute significantly to the H-1B pool will face substantial challenges if the program ends. US businesses, particularly in tech and healthcare, will struggle to fill positions and could face a talent gap.

On the global stage, Canada, the UK, and other countries with more open immigration policies are likely to benefit from the shift in labour mobility. The travel and tourism industries in the US will need to adapt to these changes as the demand for international travel declines. It remains to be seen how this debate will unfold, but one thing is clear: the future of immigration and travel in the US is changing.