Trump Administration Launches Federal Investigation Into Alleged Abuse of U.S. Work Visa Programs
Vice President JD Vance and the Department of Laborâs Office of Inspector General announced a nationwide investigation Wednesday into alleged fraud involving U.S. employment-based visa programs, describing the effort as a major initiative to strengthen immigration enforcement and protect American workers.
Speaking at an anti-fraud event in Milwaukee, Vance said the investigation is intended to ensure that U.S. jobs are not obtained through fraudulent visa practices. He accused some employers and overseas labor brokers of misusing the H-1B visa program to replace qualified American workers and suppress wages.
âWhat weâre doing in the Trump administration, weâre saying, âNo more,’â Vance said, adding that the administration is committed to enforcing immigration laws and holding those who violate them accountable.
Labor Department Inspector General Anthony DâEsposito said investigators have already issued dozens of subpoenas as part of what he described as a broad review of alleged fraud involving H-1B visas and employment-based green card applications.
According to DâEsposito, investigators are examining allegations that some employers and labor brokers submitted fraudulent visa petitions, required foreign workers to participate in wage-kickback schemes, or paid wages below federally required levels. He also alleged that certain cases under investigation may involve links to forced labor operations, human trafficking networks, transnational criminal organizations, and other forms of organized fraud. Those allegations remain under investigation.
Federal officials said the inquiry extends beyond the technology sector and includes healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries where authorities suspect immigration or employment laws may have been violated. Investigators are also reviewing claims that fraudulent hiring practices may have displaced American workers or resulted in the improper issuance of immigration benefits.
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations that typically require specialized knowledge and at least a bachelorâs degree. The program is widely used by technology companies, healthcare providers, universities, engineering firms, and manufacturers to fill positions requiring highly skilled workers.
According to data from the Pew Research Center, most H-1B visa recipients are citizens of India, with many employed in computer science, engineering, and other technical fields. The largest numbers of approved petitions are issued in states including California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Washington.
Administration officials said the investigation is part of a broader effort to combat immigration fraud, strengthen oversight of employment-based visa programs, and ensure that federal immigration laws are enforced while protecting opportunities for qualified American workers.
