US Steps Up H-1B Compliance Checks Amid Complaints Against Cognizant and Other Indian IT Companies

The US Department of Labor has launched an aggressive investigation into H-1B and PERM visa fraud, with federal investigators operating under a fraud task force issuing subpoenas and responding to whistleblower claims.

The probes target Indian IT companies, including Cognizant, following complaints about visa compliance. The task force is examining allegations of misuse of the H-1B program, which allows US companies to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

The PERM labor certification process, used for permanent employment-based green cards, is also under scrutiny. Investigators are reviewing employer practices to ensure they comply with rules requiring them to recruit US workers first.

The stepped-up enforcement comes amid ongoing concerns about the impact of H-1B visas on American jobs. The Labor Department has not disclosed the number of subpoenas issued or the specific allegations against Cognizant and other firms.