What is the EXILE Act?

It is a bill introduced by Rep. Greg Steube that seeks to end allocation of new H-1B visa numbers. The proposal aims to prioritize US workers. It has been introduced in the House and would need to pass both chambers and be signed by the President before becoming law.

When could the H-1B visa cap hit zero?

Reports indicate FY2027 is the target start if the EXILE Act advances. This timing is not final because the bill must progress through the House and Senate and be signed by the President. Until then, the current H-1B visa framework remains in effect.

How might this affect Microsoft investors?

A zero-cap outcome could tighten specialized hiring and lift wage pressure. That may affect delivery timelines or staffing costs. Microsoft has strong margins and cash flow, which helps absorb shocks, but investors should watch headcount, compensation comments, and hiring updates in company communications for early signals.

What indicators should investors monitor now?

Track committee schedules, co-sponsor counts, and credible reporting on the EXILE Act. Company-side, watch hiring plans, wage inflation mentions, and any delivery delays linked to staffing. Also note vendor mix changes or nearshore buildouts. These signals show whether the H-1B visa risk is starting to affect execution.

Law and Government

February 11: EXILE Act Targets H-1B End by 2027, Tech Hiring Risk

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

On February 11, the H-1B visa faced a new policy risk as Rep. Greg Steube filed the EXILE Act to end the program, with reports pointing to a zero cap from FY2027. For US investors, the proposal signals hiring, cost, and delivery risks across tech, research, and health IT. Visa-reliant employers such as Microsoft (MSFT) could see tighter pipelines, longer fill times, and upward wage pressure. We explain what the Greg Steube bill proposes, likely timing, and how to position around workforce risk without overreacting to early headlines.