Texas Probes Alleged H-1B Visa Fraud Involving North Texas Firms
AUSTIN, TX –Texas authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation into suspected abuse of the H-1B visa program, placing three North Texas companies under scrutiny over alleged irregularities in foreign worker sponsorship.
The probe, announced by the Texas Office of the Attorney General in a January 28 statement, marks increased state scrutiny of companies suspected of misusing the federal visa system.
Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs) to the firms, requiring them to provide extensive records related to operations, finances and employment practices. Investigators suspect the companies may have used deceptive methods to obtain H-1B visas, which allow U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialized occupations.
Officials allege some businesses created so-called “ghost” or paper companies to project legitimacy. These entities reportedly advertised products or services online that were not actually offered. In one cited instance, a company allegedly listed an unfinished single-family home as its corporate office while claiming to operate as an active commercial enterprise.
Authorities believe such arrangements were used to create the appearance of legitimate business activity in order to sponsor foreign workers, despite little evidence the companies generated genuine revenue or provided real services while sponsoring numerous visa holders in recent years.
Framing the inquiry as part of a broader worker protection effort, Paxton warned those attempting to exploit the visa system would face action. “Any criminal who attempts to scam the H-1B visa program and use ‘ghost offices’ or other fraudulent ploys should be prepared to face the full force of the law,” Paxton said in the official statement. He added that abuse within such programs “strips jobs and opportunities away from Texans,” and pledged continued scrutiny of the system while holding violators accountable.
As part of the investigation, authorities have sought records identifying employees associated with the companies, documentation of services allegedly offered, financial statements, and internal and external communications linked to company operations.
The investigation remains in its early stages and no criminal charges have been filed. The companies involved have not been publicly identified. Officials said further action will depend on what emerges from the requested documents. (ANI)
