H-1B Visa Fraud Probe: Trump Administration Names Cognizant as US Widens Investigation
The Trump administration has launched a large-scale federal investigation into widespread fraud and abuse within the H-1B and PERM foreign worker visa programs. Confirming the development, Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito announced that the government has already issued dozens of subpoenas to companies suspected of exploiting foreign labor.
The Trump administration has launched a wide-ranging investigation into alleged fraud involving the H-1B and PERM visa programmes, with US Labour Department Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito confirming that multiple subpoenas have already been issued. The probe focuses on suspected labour trafficking, visa abuse and fraudulent employment practices, with global IT services firm Cognizant being mentioned by officials during discussions on the investigation. Authorities, however, have not accused the company of wrongdoing or announced any charges against it.
Investigation Targets Alleged H-1B Visa Abuse
Speaking about the investigation, D'Esposito said the administration is examining allegations that some employers and labour brokers misused foreign worker programmes by submitting fraudulent applications or offering jobs that did not exist. The probe also seeks to identify cases involving labour trafficking and exploitation of foreign workers. H-1B, Green Card Changes From August; Know How Proposed Changes May Impact Indians.
Officials said the Department of Labor has already issued several subpoenas and is encouraging individuals with credible information about visa fraud to come forward as the investigation progresses.
Cognizant Mentioned During Briefing
During the announcement, D'Esposito referred to Cognizant while discussing the broader investigation. However, federal officials did not allege that the company had violated any laws or confirm that it was the subject of enforcement action. The reference has drawn attention because Cognizant is one of the largest users of the H-1B visa programme. The company has not been formally charged, and authorities have not released further details regarding its role, if any, in the ongoing inquiry. H-1B Visa Fee: US Federal Judge Blocks Donald Trump Administration’s USD 100,000 Employer Charge for Visa Applications.
H-1B Programme Under Increased Scrutiny
The H-1B visa programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in specialised occupations, particularly in the technology, engineering and healthcare sectors. Indian professionals account for a significant share of H-1B visa holders each year.
The Trump administration has repeatedly stated that it intends to tighten oversight of employment-based visa programmes, arguing that they should be used only for legitimate workforce needs and not to undermine wages or employment opportunities for US workers.
US authorities have not disclosed the full scope of the investigation or identified all organisations under review. Officials said the inquiry remains in its early stages, and further subpoenas or enforcement actions may follow based on evidence gathered during the probe. No findings have been announced, and any allegations arising from the investigation will be subject to due legal process.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 09, 2026 09:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
