The Trump administration has started its first significant inquiry into suspected fraud in the H-1B visa program. This marks an important increase in actions against immigration-related violations. The probe will review claims of fraud in H-1B and PERM visas, labor trafficking, and the replacement of American workers, according to Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito.
The move comes as the White House steps up focus on immigration enforcement and employment rules. Vice President JD Vance plans to detail the wider anti-fraud efforts at an event in Milwaukee on Wednesday.
D’Esposito said in a Fox Business interview that investigators have already begun sending subpoenas for the case. He called it another case where fraud drives violent crime. Much of the visa and human trafficking tied to foreign labor links to cartels and transnational gangs. The work aims to improve safety and affordability in America.
Dozens of subpoenas have already been served, showing the investigation has moved past early stages.
The H-1B visa lets U.S. employers hire skilled foreign professionals for specialized jobs. It is normally granted for three years at first and can extend to six years total.
Technology companies file the largest share of applications, about 60 to 70 percent of recent ones. Other sectors using the program include consulting, engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, medical research, and higher education.
California, New York, and Illinois lead in H-1B applications.
The inquiry covers more than standard labor rules and may affect public safety. D’Esposito noted some fraud involves people in medical facilities and doctors’ offices, putting others at risk.
It will also check claims that employers and intermediaries gained financially from immigration programs while displacing qualified American workers.
The administration wants to ensure Americans do not lose jobs to unqualified foreigners or those exploiting the system.
The probe follows a court decision last month that blocked a proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B applications, ruling the administration lacked authority to impose it without Congress.
