US Department of Labor Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito has reiterated the Trump administration’s crackdown on alleged H-1B and J-1 visa fraud, warning that misuse of the programs threatens American jobs and national security.
In a post on X, D’Esposito said he and Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling were working alongside President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and the White House Fraud Task Force to expose suspected wrongdoing and hold those responsible accountable. The statement signals continued support for the administration’s efforts to investigate alleged abuse of employment-based immigration programs. However, D’Esposito did not announce a new investigation, enforcement action or visa restriction in the post. The investigation examines whether the exchange visitor program has been improperly used to circumvent employment obligations, exploit taxpayer-funded programs or disadvantage American workers. The investigation has brought greater scrutiny to the use of foreign researchers at American universities, particularly institutions receiving federal research funding. However, the presence of foreign researchers does not, by itself, establish a violation of visa rules. The administration has also stepped up scrutiny of the H-1B program, which allows US employers to hire foreign professionals for specialized jobs requiring relevant qualifications. The administration ‘s increased scrutiny could lead to further investigations or enforcement actions if authorities identify violations. However, D’Esposito’s statement does not announce any additional restrictions on either visa category.
