Recent data indicates a substantial drop in PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) applications filed by major Indian IT services firms in the U.S. for the 2026 fiscal year. PERM applications are a critical step in the process for foreign workers to obtain permanent residency, or 'green cards,' through employer sponsorship.

According to the reported figures, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) submitted only two PERM applications in 2026, a sharp decrease from 513 in 2025 and 1,804 in 2024. Similarly, HCL Technologies saw its filings drop to 59 in 2026, down from 323 in the previous year. This trend coincides with broader discussions regarding potential shifts in U.S. immigration policy under the Trump administration, often referred to in industry circles as a 'green card crackdown.'

Despite the dramatic reduction in filings, Infosys has publicly addressed the situation, characterizing the shift as having 'no material impact' on its overall business performance. The company maintains that its operational model remains stable despite the changing regulatory environment for foreign labor. While the data confirms a clear downward trend in visa-related filings across the sector, the long-term implications for staffing and project delivery remain a subject of industry analysis. The reports highlight a pivot in how these firms are managing their U.S. workforce pipelines in response to evolving federal requirements.