A Major Scam Involving H-1B Visas! From Fake Jobs to Fabricated Resumes—How the Fraud Unfolds

H-1B Visa Trap: The dream of an H-1B visa can turn into a trap for many Indians. Learn how 'Desi consultancies' prey on young people.

H-1B Visa Trap: For thousands of Indian students and professionals, the H-1B visa is the primary gateway to settling in the US and building a lucrative career. However, journalist Tanule Thakur’s recent book, *Wild Wild East*, has exposed the dark reality hidden behind this golden dream. The book sheds light on the 'Desi consultancies' that are ensnaring Indian youth in webs of deceit.

What are these 'Desi consultancies'?

Commonly known as 'body shops,' these companies do not perform technical work themselves; instead, they act merely as middlemen. Their sole function is to place Indian employees in jobs at major US corporations. While this business model is legal, many small firms exploit it. They capitalize on loopholes in visa regulations to line their pockets and siphon off the hard-earned money of young professionals.

How is the trap of fraud laid?

The fraud begins right here in India. Recruiters entice students with promises of handsome salaries and Green Cards. However, the reality is quite different:

False Promises: The jobs advertised often do not exist.
Fake Resumes: Fresh graduates are instructed to claim 7–8 years of work experience.
Proxy Interviews: Candidates have other people take interviews on their behalf to secure the job.
The Facade of Support: Even after landing the job, they must rely on remote experts to perform the actual work, as they lack the necessary knowledge themselves.

Why do victims remain silent?

The exploitation does not end even after arriving in the US. Many are housed in cramped quarters, go months without pay, or have a portion of their earnings deducted. The biggest issue lies in the very nature of the H-1B visa rules, which tie employees to their employers; quitting a job results in the loss of visa status and potential deportation. Driven by this fear, employees often suffer abuse in silence.

What is the solution?

Tanule Thakur believes that this system requires significant reform. If visa regulations were modified to make the visa ‘portable’—allowing employees to switch companies at will—it could curb the arbitrary practices of these consultancies. Furthermore, the US needs to keep a close watch on these fraudulent firms and enforce stricter laws to ensure that no young Indian falls victim to scams while pursuing their dreams.