eBay Layoffs Coincide with H-1B Visa Applications, Sparking Controversy
eBay's recent strategy of laying off local employees while simultaneously applying for foreign worker H-1B visas has generated controversy. Data shows the company submitted numerous H-1B visa applications even as it cut hundreds of American jobs. This situation has prompted intense discussions in the tech industry regarding whether companies should prioritize local employment or seek specialized talent, reflecting eBay's ongoing demand for specific technical skills during its business transformation.
What are the key facts?
- 1eBay plans to lay off 639 employees in 2026
- 2Simultaneously submitted 429 H-1B visa applications
- 3Data source: Cutoffs.io
- 4Sparked societal discussions on corporate workforce strategy
What happened?
According to workforce tracking agency Cutoffs.io, eBay announced plans to lay off 639 American employees in 2026, while applying for a total of 429 H-1B visa slots in the first two quarters. Although eBay previously claimed that its first-quarter performance was strong, this parallel approach of layoffs and hiring has faced external criticism, questioning its priorities in workforce management.
What does this mean for cross-border sellers?
This incident reflects eBay's pressure on internal operations and cost control. Sellers should pay attention to potential changes in the platform's technology support and seller service teams. If layoffs impact seller support response times, it is advisable for sellers to diversify their channels to reduce dependence on a single platform's customer service.