Indian professionals, students, and family-based immigrants in the US may face new restrictions under a proposed immigration bill by Republican lawmaker Tommy Tuberville. The bill, known as the “ASSIMILATION Act,” aims to overhaul the US immigration system by emphasizing merit-based admissions over family-chain and lottery-based entries. Tuberville highlighted the need to discourage those who do not assimilate or appreciate the country from coming to the US.
The proposed legislation would have significant implications for Indian nationals, particularly those benefiting from employment-based immigration and H-1B visa programs. It includes provisions such as reducing the annual H-1B cap to 50,000 visas, imposing higher wage requirements on employers hiring foreign workers, and limiting H-1B status to a single three-year term without extensions.
Furthermore, the bill targets foreign students by eliminating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the US post-graduation. It also seeks to end the diversity visa lottery program and restrict family-sponsored immigration categories. The legislation proposes stricter naturalization standards, including a residency requirement of 10 years for citizenship and English proficiency at the B2 level.
A companion bill has been introduced in the House by Andy Ogles, reflecting the ongoing debate on immigration in the US. With Republicans advocating for tighter border control and reduced legal immigration pathways, the issue remains a focal point in the political landscape, especially in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.
