H-1B-related filings are rising sharply in several Republican-held congressional districts in Texas, creating a striking contrast with the growing political push in the state to restrict the work visa programme.

An analysis of federal labour data by jobs and layoffs tracking platform LayoffHedge, cited by Newsweek, found substantial growth in H-1B demand across several Texas districts between fiscal years 2019 and 2025. The analysis examined about 6.9 million Labour Condition Applications (LCAs), which employers are required to file with the US Department of Labor before submitting H-1B petitions.

While LCAs do not represent visas actually issued, they are widely viewed as an indicator of employer demand for foreign skilled workers.

Texas accounted for 10 of the 20 fastest-growing congressional districts for H-1B demand during the period, with eight of the fastest-growing districts represented by Republicans. The increase was particularly sharp in suburban areas.

In Texas’ 3rd Congressional District, certified filings jumped 242 per cent, from 1,388 in FY2019 to 4,748 in FY2025. The 26th District recorded a 217 per cent rise, from 2,010 to 6,374 filings.

Other Republican-held Texas districts also posted significant increases. Filings rose 145 per cent in the 31st District, 126 per cent in the 10th, 69 per cent in the 22nd, 58 per cent in the 8th, 48 per cent in the 21st and 47 per cent in the 4th.

The Texas surge contrasts with the broader US trend. Fewer than a quarter of the 243 districts examined recorded an increase in filings between FY2019 and FY2025. The median Democratic-held district saw filings decline 30 per cent, compared with an 18 per cent decline in the median Republican-held district.

The rise is notable because Texas has simultaneously become a centre of opposition to H-1B visas. Governor Greg Abbott ordered state agencies and public universities to freeze new H-1B petitions, with the restrictions currently scheduled to remain until May 2027 unless exemptions are approved.

Several Texas Republicans have also backed efforts to restrict immigration and the H-1B programme, while MAGA-aligned activists have increasingly criticised the hiring of foreign professionals.

The data nevertheless show that businesses in several Republican districts continue to seek foreign skilled workers, particularly in technology and other specialised sectors.

The trend highlights the growing tension between political opposition to H-1B visas and the continued demand among US employers for highly skilled international talent.