A Democratic lawmaker has reintroduced legislation aimed at creating a pathway to lawful permanent residency for millions of H-1B visa holders, renewing efforts to address the long-standing employment-based Green Card backlog in the United States.

The proposed legislation seeks to provide greater certainty for highly skilled foreign professionals who have lived and worked in the U.S. for years while waiting for permanent residency. Many H-1B workers, particularly those from India, face decades-long waits because of per-country Green Card limits and annual visa caps.

Supporters of the bill argue that the current immigration system places unnecessary burdens on skilled workers and their families despite their significant contributions to the U.S. economy. They say providing a clearer path to permanent residency would help retain talent, strengthen American competitiveness, and reduce uncertainty for employers.

The legislation is expected to benefit professionals employed in technology, healthcare, engineering, research, finance, and other sectors that rely heavily on skilled immigrant workers. It would also offer greater stability for spouses and children who often face immigration-related challenges while waiting for Green Cards.

Immigration advocates have welcomed the renewed proposal, saying it addresses one of the most pressing concerns facing highly skilled immigrants. However, the measure is likely to face significant debate in Congress, where immigration reform has remained politically challenging for years.

Business groups have also supported efforts to modernize the employment-based immigration system, arguing that reducing Green Card backlogs would help U.S. companies recruit and retain global talent.

Although the bill’s prospects remain uncertain, its reintroduction has generated renewed interest among H-1B visa holders and immigrant communities who have long sought reforms to the employment-based immigration process.

If enacted, the legislation could represent one of the most significant changes to the U.S. employment-based immigration system in years, offering hope to millions of skilled workers waiting to become permanent residents.