An annual limitation was established of 170,000 visas for immigrants from eastern hemisphere countries with no more than 20,000 per country. By 1968, the annual limitation from the western hemisphere was set at 120,000 immigrants, with visas available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 76 to 18. The House voted was 326 to 69. President Lyndon Johnson signed the legislation.
The Act was spawned by the Civil Rights Movement.