U.S. Launches “Project Firewall”: H-1B Visa Crackdown Seeks to Prioritize American Workers

Under the new campaign, the U.S. Department of Labor steps up enforcement — sparking fierce debate over foreign talent and job protection.

The U.S. government has unveiled a major crackdown on the H-1B visa program with a new initiative titled Project Firewall — designed to ensure qualified Americans are given priority in hiring and to curb the misuse of foreign-worker visas.

What Is Project Firewall?

• Launched by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), the initiative targets companies suspected of misusing the H-1B visa route.
• It includes active investigations — as of now, authorities have launched at least 175 probes for potential visa abuse.
• Firms found violating rules may face penalties: back-pay orders to affected workers, civil fines, or even temporary bans from sponsoring future H-1B applications.

Why the U.S. Is Taking This Step

• The administration argues that jobs meant for Americans are being unfairly given to foreign visa holders, potentially depressing wages and reducing employment opportunities for local talent.
• According to DOL, the goal is to safeguard “the rights, wages, and job opportunities of highly skilled American workers.”
• This move marks a significant shift — from passive complaint-based enforcement to a more proactive, audit-based model.

Broader Implications & Reactions

• For U.S. companies — especially in tech, engineering, and high-skill sectors — the crackdown could mean stricter hiring checks and reduced reliance on foreign labor.
• For H-1B visa holders and their dependents, the policy introduces heightened uncertainty. Some may face delays, fewer sponsorships, or even job instability if their employers are audited.
• In September 2025, a separate measure introduced a US$100,000 fee for new H-1B applications, further raising the barrier for companies looking to hire foreign workers.

Where It Stands Now

• Under Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, DOL is leading enforcement personally — a new development in the agency’s history.
• Meanwhile, the administration says it remains open to foreign talent — but only when it’s truly necessary, and only if the hiring practices align with U.S. jobs-first objectives.

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