H-1B Visa Holders in the U.S. Warned About Scams: 5 Red Flags to Watch For

New Delhi: H-1B visas remain a popular route for Indians seeking employment in the United States, but experts warn that several scams target visa holders, exploiting their immigration status. Workers are often charged exorbitant fees or coerced into unfair practices under the pretext of securing jobs or visa processing.

Immigration lawyer Brad Banias has alerted H-1B visa holders to the risks, citing instances where his clients were asked to deliver cash payments in person—even across international locations such as Texas and Mumbai. “H-1B trafficking cases are not new. Staffing firms, companies, and intermediaries sometimes exploit foreign employees, paying them less than promised or forcing them to cover visa and training costs themselves,” he said.

Five Warning Signs of H-1B Visa Scams:

1. Being asked to pay your own salary
   If a company informs you that you will only receive a fraction of your salary—or asks you to pay a portion of it yourself—it is a major red flag. Such practices indicate exploitation and underpayment.
2. Not receiving regular payslips
   Legitimate companies provide regular payslips. If your employer delays or refuses to provide them, or demands payment in exchange for issuing past payslips, it is a warning sign of a potential scam.
3. Being asked to find your own client
   Some companies may instruct employees to bring in clients themselves. This can result in months of unpaid idle time and could jeopardize future visa renewals.
4. Being asked to create fake work documents
   Requests to fabricate work experience, falsify profiles, or generate fake payslips are illegal and dangerous. Some companies threaten visa cancellation to coerce employees into compliance.
5. Demanding cash payments for any work
   If a company requires you to pay in cash for assignments or processes, treat it as a serious warning. Brad Banias cited a case where his client was asked to deliver cash in bags both in Texas and Mumbai.

Advice for Workers:
H-1B holders should remain vigilant and report suspicious practices to immigration authorities. Being aware of these red flags can prevent exploitation and protect both your visa status and personal finances.