Microsoft Layoffs Spark Concerns Over Replacement of U.S. Workers with Foreign Hires

Microsoft has recently implemented one of the largest workforce reductions in its history, affecting thousands of American employees. Despite these layoffs, the company is actively pursuing thousands of new foreign hires through the H-1B visa program, raising concerns about its labor strategy. The layoffs, which have impacted workers in Washington and California, have seen over 15,000 employees terminated since spring. Simultaneously, Microsoft has filed for thousands of H-1B visas, with many job titles mirroring those of the displaced American workers. This pattern suggests a potential shift towards replacing U.S. workers with foreign labor. Microsoft has spent millions lobbying for high-skilled immigration reforms, particularly to expand H-1B visa access. However, data reveals that for every job created in the U.S., the company requested over five H-1B visas, indicating a possible strategy to reduce labor costs. While Microsoft argues that the U.S. lacks sufficient skilled workers, displaced employees counter that they were more than capable of filling these roles. This raises questions about whether the company is prioritizing profit over American workers. This trend, seen among other tech giants, prompts a broader discussion on whether the replacement of American workers with foreign labor will continue unchecked or face stricter scrutiny.

Published: 7/4/2025