Texas probes alleged H-1B visa fraud at three North Texas firms; ‘ghost offices’ under scanner

Texas Attorney General probes alleged H-1B visa fraud, flags ‘ghost offices’

• Texas AG Paxton investigates alleged H-1B visa abuse at three North Texas companies
• CIDs seek company records over fraud allegations of ghost offices and fake websites
• Investigation follows state freeze on new H-1B petitions to protect Texas jobs

Did our AI summary help?

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Wednesday announced a sweeping investigation into alleged abuses of the H-1B visa program, issuing Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs) to three North Texas companies suspected of fraudulent activity.

The probe follows Governor Greg Abbott’s directive to freeze new H-1B petitions across state agencies and public universities, citing misuse of the program and prioritizing American workers.

Paxton said the businesses under investigation may have created sham companies with “ghost offices” and fake websites to sponsor foreign workers, claiming, “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. Abuse and fraud within these programs strip jobs and opportunities away from Texans.”

🚨BREAKING: I'm announcing a sweeping investigation into H-1B visa abuse, starting with three North Texas businesses. 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. pic.twitter.com/FHuHCJh3iH

— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) January 29, 2026

The CIDs require the companies to submit documents identifying employees, financial statements, records of products or services offered, and communication related to company operations.

The investigation is part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with federal visa rules and protect local employment, though no criminal charges have been filed yet, and the companies remain unnamed.

The H-1B visa program allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in specialized roles, with 65,000 visas available annually and an additional 20,000 for advanced degree holders.

The program has faced scrutiny after a $100,000 application fee was introduced and high-paid applicants were prioritized, raising concerns about misuse and impact on American workers.

This investigation highlights Texas officials’ increasing vigilance over visa program abuses and potential fraud, signaling tougher enforcement measures in the state.