Washington, D.C., USA: The U.S. Department of Labour has initiated more than 175 investigations within the past two months to examine potential cases of H-1B visa misuse, according to a recent report by FOX News.
These investigations are part of Project Firewall, a federal initiative launched in September 2025 following former President Donald Trump’s introduction of a $100,000 H-1B visa application fee. The project aims to ensure that employers prioritize American workers and are held accountable for any violations in hiring practices involving foreign labor.
U.S. Secretary of Labour Lori Chavez-DeRemer emphasised that the administration remains dedicated to protecting American jobs. In her statement, she said, “The Trump Administration is fulfilling its promise to end practices that sideline American workers. As we work to strengthen our economy, safeguarding our workforce remains our highest priority.”
She further stated that combating fraud in the H-1B program is essential to ensuring that top-tier positions are first offered to U.S. citizens. “Through collaboration with our federal partners, we will eliminate abuse in the visa process and make sure skilled jobs stay within the hands of Americans,” Chavez-DeRemer added.
One of the major goals of Project Firewall is to address the issue of underpayment. Reports have shown that some foreign professionals with advanced degrees were paid salaries significantly below the standard wage levels for their positions. Such practices not only undermine fair pay for visa holders but also put downward pressure on U.S. workers’ wages, forcing them to accept reduced compensation to remain competitive.
Under U.S. law, employers are obligated to inform American employees before hiring through the H-1B, H-1B1, or E-3 visa programs by submitting a Labour Condition Application (LCA). However, investigations uncovered that several companies submitted fraudulent filings — listing fake job sites and misleading information about the roles assigned to foreign workers.
Authorities also found that some visa workers were underpaid, did not receive the wages specified in their LCAs, or were excluded from payrolls during gaps between assigned projects.
If violations are confirmed, the Department of Labor may impose financial penalties, demand repayment of withheld wages, and restrict offending employers from participating in future visa programs for a specified duration.
