Florida Tightens Oversight of H-1B Visa Use in Universities

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has directed the state’s Board of Governors to increase scrutiny of how public universities use H-1B visas, citing concerns about the programme’s misuse.

The governor’s directive targets the cap-exempt status that allows universities and certain non-profit organisations to hire foreign workers without being subject to the federal H-1B numerical limits or lottery system. Under current law, universities can file petitions year-round, while private employers face a cap of 85,000 visas annually, including 20,000 reserved for applicants with advanced degrees. 

Critics argue that this exemption has allowed institutions to favour foreign workers over qualified American graduates. Governor DeSantis described the measure as an effort to ensure taxpayer-funded universities prioritise domestic workers. 

“We will not tolerate H-1B abuse in Florida institutions,” he said, noting that some positions could be filled by American employees. 

His comments reflect broader concerns about the programme being used to import lower-cost labour rather than address genuine skill shortages. The move aligns with national Republican efforts to reform the H-1B system. Representative Tom Tiffany has introduced the “Colleges for the American People Act of 2025,” which would remove the exemption for higher education staff. 

If passed, foreign academics would have to compete for the 20,000 visas allocated to advanced-degree holders, limiting universities’ ability to recruit international talent. In addition, Florida has announced plans to redirect or eliminate millions of dollars in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) funding in partnership with federal and institutional authorities. 

The proposed changes could affect universities’ hiring of specialised international researchers, potentially creating barriers for foreign academics seeking employment in the United States.