The Trump administration has initiated its first significant investigation into alleged fraud within the H-1B and PERM visa programs, expanding its efforts to combat immigration-related fraud and safeguard American workers.
Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito revealed the probe during a Fox Business appearance on Wednesday, stating it will scrutinize claims of H-1B and PERM visa abuse, labor trafficking, and the displacement of U.S. workers.
D’Esposito reported that investigators have already served dozens of subpoenas as part of the investigation.
“This is another example where fraud is fueling violent crime,” D’Esposito stated. “Much of the visa activity and human trafficking we see in this foreign labor sector is tied to cartels and transnational gangs, and this is the work we should be doing—not only to make America safe again but to make America more affordable again.”
According to D’Esposito, the investigation extends beyond conventional labor industries.
“This is not just people working in factories or traditional labor,” he explained. “These are individuals working in medical facilities and doctors’ offices that are putting people in harm’s way.”
The H-1B visa program permits U.S. employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations for an initial three-year period, with the possibility of extension to six years. Technology companies have accounted for an estimated 60 percent to 70 percent of new H-1B visa applications in recent years. Other industries heavily utilizing the program include consulting and professional services, engineering and manufacturing, healthcare and medical research, and higher education.
D’Esposito noted that California, New York, and Illinois rank among the top states for H-1B visa applicants.
He emphasized the administration’s goal of ensuring American workers are protected from abuse of the visa system.
“The objective,” D’Esposito said, “is to guarantee hardworking Americans are not seeing their jobs taken away by foreigners or individuals who are gaming the system—people who financially benefit from bringing these individuals into America and placing them in roles they are not qualified for.”
