Mu Sigma, an Indian data analytics firm operating from Chicago has been charged for committing visa fraud. The investigation further revealed that the company induced unauthorized aliens to enter and remain in the U.S.
According to the government investigation, the firm illegally circumvented H-1B visa regulations. They accomplished the scam by actively employing B1 visa holders under contract. For the charges, the company has agreed to pay $2.5 million to settle allegations.
The investigation was carried on by ICE HSI (Homeland Security Investigations), and the U.S. Department of State’s (DSS Diplomatic Security Service). The investigation followed with more accusations against the company detailing that the company’s invitation letters meant for B1 visa holders misrepresented the nature of the B1 visitors’ intended business. The company even coached B1 business visitors to avoid detection.
An investigation started in 2013 itself. The report was filed by a Mu Sigma employee who informed government officials that the company was circumventing H-1B visa regulations. About 400 B1 visa holders were found illegally working in the United States. These residents were being paid in India at India-based wages. The company’s employees were instructed to twist the truth misrepresent their intended U.S. employment destination.
Ryan L. Spradlin who is a special agent in charge of HSI Dallas stated, “To ensure fairness, U.S. visa and hiring laws are designed to ensure that all companies operate from a level playing field. Like children who get their hands caught in the cookie jar, this joint investigation shows a small sliver of corruption that some companies are capable of if they think no one is looking.”
Jeffrey McGallicher who is a special agent in charge of the DSS Houston Field Office also stated, “This case represents the finest efforts of cooperative law enforcement at the federal and state level, along with DSS’ global network of special agents, working together to stop criminals from exploiting U.S. visas, passports, and foreign workers.”