The return of the Grassley-Durbin bill will raise the H-1B issue again and, ironically, give proponents of a cap increase a potential opportunity to seek one. But the coupling of H-1B changes and broader immigration-reform efforts also gives supporters of the program an argument to use against piecemeal efforts to set new restrictions, Hoffman pointed out. "We just urge restraint," he said.

Although Obama has talked about the need for immigration reform, it's uncertain when or if he will push Congress to take any action. And since his election, the president hasn't said anything about H-1B matters, although he has appointed people to serve in key positions.

In addition, the new administration is discussing the visa issue with interested parties. Just last week, for instance, Dean Garfield, president and CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council, said he had met with administration officials to discuss a number of issues, including the H-1B program.