H-1B Visa Scam: Unveiling the Exploitation of the US Visa Lottery

Introduction

In my experience, understanding the H-1B visa lottery scam is crucial to comprehend the depth of exploitation in the US immigration system.

What is the H-1B Visa Lottery?

• The H-1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations.
• It is the largest visa category in the US, covering fields like tech, finance, and engineering.
• Applicants need a job offer, proof of qualification, and employer proof of lack of US candidates.

The H-1B Visa Scam Unveiled

• The scam involved multiple registrations to increase chances of selection in the lottery.
• Companies linked to Reddy exploited this loophole, submitting numerous applications under different names.
• Reddy's candidates were consistently successful in winning the lottery between 2020 to 2023.

Impact on US Workforce

• The scam altered the type of companies winning visas and the nature of workers admitted to the US.
• Median salaries at staffing firms decreased significantly due to workers recruited through Reddy's companies.

Financial Gains from the Scam

• Reddy's companies charged a hefty fee for securing H-1B visas, taking a significant percentage of the worker's pay.
• Despite claiming limited involvement, Reddy profited substantially from the exploitation.

Widespread Exploitation

• Reddy's case is not isolated, with reports of thousands of staffing firms using similar tactics to secure H-1B visas.
• Approximately 40,000 visas were secured collectively over four years through exploitation.

Legal Defense or Deception?

• Reddy defended his actions by claiming to be a 'registered agent' with limited involvement in the companies.
• Contradictory evidence suggests his deeper involvement in the visa scam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the exploitation of the H-1B visa lottery system highlights the vulnerabilities in the US immigration process and the need for stricter regulations to prevent such scams in the future.

EndNote

The H-1B visa scam orchestrated by a Congress leader sheds light on the intricate loopholes that exist in the US visa system and the impact of such exploitation on the workforce and economy.