New York: The Trump administration has initiated around 175 investigations into alleged H-1B visa abuse, targeting cases involving low wages, fake job sites, and “benching” of employees, the US Department of Labour said.

The probes are part of a broader effort to protect American jobs. “As part of our mission to protect American jobs, we've launched 175 investigations into H-1B abuse,” the department posted on X, adding that it will continue to act under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer.

Chavez-DeRemer said the department is using all available resources to curb H-1B misuse and ensure that high-skilled jobs go to American workers first.

According to Fox News, the 175 investigations account for over USD 15 million in back wages owed to workers. Officials found instances of underpaid foreign workers, employers failing to notify authorities of terminations, and non-existent job sites. Some visa holders were also found to be “benched” — unpaid between projects.

In September, Trump issued a proclamation tightening H-1B rules, requiring petitions filed after September 21, 2025, to include an additional USD 100,000 payment.