EXILE Act Explained: Inside the bill seeking to end H-1B visa program from fiscal year 2027

A Bill introduced in the US House of Representatives proposes to end the H-1B visa program starting fiscal year 2027. The legislation, titled the “Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act” or the “EXILE Act,” aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to discontinue the H-1B program. The Bill was introduced during the 119th Congress, 2nd Session, and referred to a House committee.

The Bill formally states: “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to discontinue the H–1B program, and for other purposes.”

What Is the EXILE Act

Section 1 of the legislation states: “This Act may be cited as the ‘Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemptions Act’ or the ‘EXILE Act’.”

The name reflects the stated purpose of the Bill, which is to amend existing immigration law governing the H-1B visa category.

Who Introduced the Bill
The EXILE Act was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Republican Congressman Greg Steube of Florida’s 17th Congressional District. Steube filed the bill on February 9-10, 2026, saying he wants to end the H-1B visa programme to prioritise American workers and address what he calls misuse of the system by corporations.

“Prioritizing foreign labor over the well-being and prosperity of American citizens undermines our values and national interests,” said Steube. “Our workers and young people continue to be displaced and disenfranchised by the H-1B visa program that awards corporations and foreign competitors at the expense of our workforce. We cannot preserve the American dream for our children while forfeiting their share to non-citizens. That is why I am introducing the EXILE Act to put working Americans first again.”

Which Law the Bill Amends
The proposal targets Section 214(g)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This section of law sets the annual numerical limits for H-1B visas.

The Bill does not repeal the full Act. It focuses on the provision that determines how many H-1B visas may be issued each fiscal year.

What Changes From 2027
The legislation modifies existing clauses. It revises clause (vii) to apply “through fiscal year 2026.”

It then inserts a new clause that reads: “(viii) 0 in fiscal year 2027 and each succeeding fiscal year; or”.

If enacted, this would set the annual H-1B visa allocation at zero beginning fiscal year 2027. The program would continue under current limits until the end of fiscal year 2026.

What the Bill Does Not Cover
The text does not mention the status of current H-1B visa holders. It does not outline transition measures. It does not propose a replacement visa category. It also does not detail changes to employer compliance or wage provisions.

The Bill strictly addresses the annual cap by setting it at zero from fiscal year 2027 onward.

Current Status of the Bill
The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to committee. It must pass both chambers of Congress and receive presidential approval before becoming law.

Until then, the H-1B program continues under existing statutory provisions.