US Officials Launch Major Fraud Probe Targeting H-1B Visa Programs

Labour Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito has initiated an aggressive investigation into H-1B and PERM visa fraud, publicly identifying IT firm Cognizant as a focus of the probe. Authorities are leveraging dozens of subpoenas to dismantle schemes they claim exploit foreign workers and threaten the integrity of American labor markets.

Editorial·July 8, 2026·reads: 436

US Officials Launch Major Fraud Probe Targeting H-1B Visa Programs

The Department of Labour’s Office of the Inspector General is currently examining allegations of large-scale human trafficking and coercive wage-kickback arrangements. D’Esposito characterized the inquiry as the most intensive effort against foreign labor fraud under the current administration, vowing to pursue leads that implicate major industry players. The investigation will proceed in coordination with the president’s fraud task force to address systemic abuses of non-immigrant work permits.

Beyond economic concerns, investigators are drawing a direct link between visa fraud and transnational criminal activity. D’Esposito asserted that these illicit networks are increasingly tied to cartels and gangs, complicating the security landscape. Furthermore, the probe intends to scrutinize placements beyond traditional factory roles, including high-stakes positions in medical facilities where, according to the Inspector General, fraudulent credentials could endanger patient safety and potentially lead to fatalities.