The Trump administration has launched what it describes as its most extensive investigation yet into alleged fraud involving H-1B and PERM work visa programmes, a move that could have significant implications for global employers and foreign professionals, particularly those from India.
The announcement was made by US Department of Labor Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito ahead of an anti-fraud initiative led by Vice President JD Vance. The White House later confirmed that a major investigation into H-1B visa-related fraud had officially been initiated.
During his remarks, D’Esposito said investigators had received information from whistleblowers regarding some of the largest companies operating in the H-1B and PERM ecosystem. He specifically mentioned IT services company Cognizant while discussing the scope of the investigation but did not accuse the company of any wrongdoing or announce any formal charges.
According to officials, investigators have already issued dozens of summonses as part of the ongoing probe and are working alongside the administration’s fraud task force to examine every lead.
The H-1B visa programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in specialised occupations, while the PERM programme is the labour certification process required before sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residency. Both programmes are widely used by technology companies, engineering firms, healthcare organisations, and universities.
Officials also linked the investigation to broader concerns over organised crime and labour exploitation, claiming that certain forms of visa fraud and human trafficking may be connected to transnational criminal networks. The administration says the initiative is intended to strengthen immigration enforcement, protect American workers, and curb fraudulent practices.
The development is expected to be closely monitored in India, as Indian professionals account for the overwhelming majority of H-1B visa recipients. Software engineers, IT professionals, researchers, and healthcare workers from India have long relied on the programme as a key pathway to employment in the United States, while Indian IT companies remain among the largest users of the visa system.
The investigation also comes weeks after a US federal judge struck down the administration’s proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B applications, ruling that the executive branch lacked the authority to impose such a charge without congressional approval.
As the investigation progresses, employers, visa applicants, and the technology industry will be watching closely for further developments and any potential policy changes stemming from the probe.
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