Texas Pauses H-1B Visa Petitions: A Deep Dive
In a move that has sparked considerable debate, Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered state universities and agencies on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, to temporarily halt new H-1B visa petitions. This decision, impacting the ability of employers to hire foreign workers with specialized skills, is set to remain in effect until May 31, 2027. The pause comes amidst ongoing discussions and actions aimed at reshaping the H-1B visa program, a program that has long been a subject of contention.
The Controversy Surrounding H-1B Visas
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Critics argue that the program can depress wages for American workers and facilitate the outsourcing of jobs. They contend that it creates a pipeline for overseas workers willing to accept lower pay, ultimately impacting employment opportunities for U.S. citizens. However, proponents emphasize the program’s vital role in attracting top global talent, filling critical skill gaps, and fostering innovation within the American economy. The Pew Research Center highlights that a significant portion of H-1B visas – over 60% since 2012 – are allocated to computer-related occupations.
Governor Abbott’s Rationale
Governor Abbott, in his letter, stated that the state government has a responsibility to prioritize employment opportunities for Texans. He believes that taxpayer-funded positions should be filled by residents of Texas first. This action aligns with a broader trend among Republican governors questioning the program’s benefits. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has also called for reducing H-1B hires, citing concerns about program abuse. The move aims to allow lawmakers time to establish “statutory guardrails” for the program and to allow for the implementation of reforms initiated by the Trump administration.
Impact on Texas Universities and Agencies
The pause specifically applies to state agencies and public universities. This could potentially exacerbate existing staffing shortages and hinder the ability of these institutions to recruit and retain qualified personnel. Representative Ramon Romero Jr., Chairman of the Texas Mexican American Legislative Caucus, voiced concerns that the freeze will make it harder to staff classrooms, research centers, and hospitals, ultimately impacting public services and Texans across the state.
Data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) indicates that the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas currently holds the most H-1B visas among public universities in the state, with 228 visa holders. Other institutions significantly reliant on H-1B visas include Texas A&M University (214), the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (171), the University of Texas at Austin (169), and Texas Tech University (143).
Leading H-1B Visa Recipients
While a wide range of employers utilize H-1B visas, including hospitals, bands, and universities, the tech industry dominates the landscape. Nationally, Amazon was the top recipient last year, securing over 10,000 visas, followed by Tata Consultancy Services, Microsoft, Apple, and Google. In Texas, Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation leads with 3,172 H-1B visas.
Looking Ahead
Governor Abbott has ordered agencies and universities to provide detailed information regarding their use of the H-1B program, including the number of petitions, visa holder details, and efforts to prioritize qualified Texan candidates. The future of the H-1B visa program in Texas remains uncertain, but this pause signals a significant shift in policy and a renewed focus on prioritizing domestic employment. The situation is evolving, and further developments are expected as lawmakers consider potential statutory changes.
