The administration of US President Donald Trump has launched its first large-scale investigation into alleged fraud involving the H-1B visa and PERM labour certification programmes, marking a significant escalation in scrutiny of employment-based immigration.

The investigation, led by the US Department of Labor's Office of Inspector General, is examining allegations of fraudulent visa applications, misuse of labour certification procedures and other potential violations linked to foreign worker recruitment.

US Labor Department Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said investigators have already issued dozens of summons as part of the ongoing inquiry. During a television interview, he identified US-based IT services company Cognizant as one of the firms mentioned by whistleblowers. However, he emphasized that the company has not been charged with any wrongdoing, and its mention does not imply guilt.

The announcement comes ahead of Vice President JD Vance's anti-fraud initiative in Milwaukee, where the administration is expected to outline broader efforts targeting fraud, illegal immigration and organised crime.

Whistleblower Information Under Review

Speaking to Fox Business, D'Esposito said investigators had received information involving several major corporations operating in the United States.

He noted that whistleblower complaints had prompted investigators to examine whether companies or individuals misused employment-based visa programmes through false documentation or other fraudulent practices.

At the same time, he clarified that mentioning Cognizant was part of the investigative process and should not be interpreted as an allegation of misconduct.

Authorities said every lead provided by whistleblowers would be thoroughly examined before any conclusions are drawn.

Dozens of Summons Already Issued

According to investigators, federal authorities have already served dozens of summons while collecting documents and evidence related to the H-1B visa programme and the PERM labour certification system.

The H-1B visa allows US employers to recruit highly skilled foreign professionals for specialised occupations, particularly in technology, engineering, healthcare and scientific research. The visa is generally issued for three years and can be extended for a maximum of six years.

The PERM programme is a mandatory labour certification process through which employers demonstrate that qualified American workers are unavailable before sponsoring many foreign employees for permanent residency.

Officials said the probe will focus on potential misuse of these programmes, including fraudulent applications, false employment records and violations of immigration or labour regulations.

Administration Links Visa Fraud to Broader Crime

Inspector General D'Esposito argued that immigration-related fraud should also be viewed through the lens of organised crime.

He claimed certain forms of labour exploitation and human trafficking connected to foreign workers have links to transnational criminal organisations and drug cartels.

According to the administration, strengthening oversight of employment-based visa programmes is part of a wider strategy aimed at improving national security, protecting American workers and preventing abuse of immigration systems.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also confirmed that the Trump administration has initiated a major investigation into alleged H-1B visa fraud.

Technology Sector Faces Closest Scrutiny

The technology industry remains the largest beneficiary of the H-1B visa programme, accounting for an estimated 60–70% of newly approved visas in recent years.

Apart from technology companies, engineering firms, consulting companies, healthcare organisations, universities and research institutions also rely heavily on skilled foreign professionals recruited through the programme.

Indian professionals continue to dominate H-1B approvals. According to US government data, around 71% of approved H-1B beneficiaries during fiscal year 2024 were Indian citizens, making India by far the largest source of skilled workers under the programme.

As a result, the investigation is expected to attract significant attention in India, where thousands of engineers, software developers, researchers and healthcare professionals depend on the H-1B programme for employment opportunities in the United States.

Legal Debate Continues

The investigation follows a recent federal court ruling that blocked a Trump administration proposal requiring employers to pay a USD 100,000 application fee for H-1B visas.

The court held that the executive branch lacked the authority to impose such a fee without congressional approval.

While the visa programme remains operational, the latest investigation signals a tougher enforcement approach toward alleged abuse of employment-based immigration systems. Authorities have indicated that the inquiry remains ongoing and that no conclusions regarding individual companies or organisations have been reached.

Trump Gold Card visa fails to take off: Only one approval so far

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reveals massive gap between application sales and actual visa grants as hundreds remain under vetting.

 In a development that has raised eyebrows across the global diplomatic and tech corridors, President Donald Trump’s highly publicized "Gold Card" visa program has hit a significant roadblock. Despite earlier claims of a massive surge in interest, official testimony has revealed that only a single individual has been granted the prestigious residency permit so far.

The disclosure came during a high-stakes congressional committee hearing where Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick was questioned on the progress of the initiative. The "Gold Card" program, designed to bypass traditional immigration hurdles for a $1 million fee, was touted as a cornerstone of the "America First" agenda to attract high-net-worth individuals and global talent.

Discrepancy in application figures

The current status of the program marks a sharp departure from the initial narrative presented by the administration. Earlier this year, Lutnick had indicated that approximately 1,300 applications—representing a staggering ₹10,800 crore in potential revenue—had been "sold" within days of the program’s rollout.

However, addressing the committee, Lutnick clarified that while hundreds of applications are currently in the pipeline, they remain trapped in a rigorous review process. This India News Update highlights the administrative bottleneck currently stalling a program meant to fast-track residency for wealthy foreigners.

Shift in visa pricing

The Gold Card initiative has seen several iterations since its first announcement in February 2025. Initially positioned at a premium price tag of $5 million, the administration slashed the entry cost to $1 million in September to broaden its appeal.

The program aims to offer "unlimited residency" to those who can afford it, providing almost all the benefits of American citizenship, excluding a passport and the right to vote. According to sources indicated in the hearing, the vetting process remains the primary hurdle for the 1,300 hopefuls currently awaiting approval.

Focus on global talent

Under the "America First" framework, President Trump has maintained that the US will prioritize "talented people" over those who might compete for domestic jobs. The program specifically targets wealthy investors and top-tier professionals, particularly students and entrepreneurs from nations like India and China.

"America will give visas only to talented people," the President had stated during the launch. The revenue generated from these $1 million fees is earmarked for a specific fiscal purpose: reducing the national debt and facilitating domestic tax cuts.

Replacing traditional visa categories

A significant long-term impact of the Gold Card is its intended role in restructuring the US immigration hierarchy. According to Lutnick, the Gold Card is positioned to eventually replace the EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories, which currently serve high-ability professionals and those with advanced degrees.

This shift suggests a move toward a more transactional immigration model. While the EB-1 and EB-2 routes rely on merit and employment sponsorship, the Gold Card prioritizes immediate capital investment, effectively merging the concepts of a Green Card and an investment visa.

Tiered visa card system

The Gold Card is part of a broader "Trump Card" ecosystem that includes the Trump Platinum Card and the Corporate Gold Card. While the Gold version offers permanent stay, the Platinum variant—slated for a future release—will allow individuals to reside in the US for up to 270 days a year without a travel visa.

Notably, the Platinum Card offers a unique tax incentive: holders will not be required to pay US taxes on income earned abroad. The Corporate Gold Card, meanwhile, allows companies to sponsor employees for a $2 million fee, following a non-refundable $15,000 background check.

Future of US residency

As the administration grapples with the slow approval rate, the international community is watching closely to see if the program can scale. For many Indian professionals who face decades-long waits for traditional Green Cards, the $1 million entry fee represents a prohibitively expensive but potentially faster alternative.

Whether the program will live up to its "1,300 applications" promise or remain a boutique offering for a select few remains to be seen. As of now, the "Gold Card" remains an exclusive club with only one member, keeping the Latest News Today focused on the future of US immigration reform.

Pressure Mounts on Starmer: Could Shabana Mahmood Become the UK’s First Muslim Prime Minister?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership is under severe strain amid a growing scandal tied to the appointment of a former envoy linked to Jeffrey Epstein. With senior aides resigning and internal dissent rising, speculation is mounting about a potential successor—with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood now prominently discussed as a candidate who could become the UK’s first Muslim prime minister.

The crisis erupted after Starmer appointed—and then removed—Peter Mandelson, a Labour veteran whose past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein triggered a political firestorm. The Prime Minister’s judgment has been sharply questioned, leading to the resignation of his chief of staff and communications director. As calls for his resignation grow, attention is shifting to who might steer the Labour government forward.

Who Is Shabana Mahmood?

Shabana Mahmood, the MP for Birmingham Ladywood since 2010, has risen swiftly through Labour’s ranks. A trained barrister and one of the party’s first Muslim women MPs, she has held several shadow cabinet roles and was appointed Home Secretary after Labour’s 2024 election victory. Known as a disciplined and sharp political operator, Mahmood now oversees one of the most challenging briefs: immigration, security, and policing.

Mahmood’s Background and Immigration Stance

Born in Birmingham to Pakistani immigrant parents, Mahmood often highlights her working-class roots and British Muslim identity. Recently, however, she has adopted a firmer line on immigration, aligning with the government’s push for stricter rules.

Last week, she defended proposed changes to settlement regulations, stating that permanent residency in the UK is a “privilege, not a right.” Mahmood argued it would be “odd” for the country not to prioritize attracting the “brightest and best” talent—a stance that positions her as a pragmatist on one of the nation’s most divisive issues.

Other Contenders in the Labour Leadership Frame

While Mahmood is a strong candidate, she is not the only one being discussed. Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, remains a favorite among the party’s left wing and is currently leading in bookmakers’ odds. Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, is seen as ambitious but has faced criticism for his ties to Mandelson and support for private sector involvement in the NHS. Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, enjoys soft-left support, though his past electoral defeat lingers. Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is widely popular but lacks a parliamentary seat—a hurdle under Labour’s rules.

Why This Matters Now

The uncertainty over Keir Starmer’s leadership comes at a critical time for the Labour government, which is grappling with internal unity and public trust. The Epstein-linked scandal has amplified doubts about Starmer’s decision-making, making the question of succession urgent. Should Mahmood rise to the top, it would mark a historic moment for British politics, while also signaling a continued tough stance on immigration and national security.

As the situation develops, all eyes are on Westminster to see whether Starmer can weather the storm—or if the Labour Party will soon witness a seismic shift in power.