The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has carried out a major crackdown in Northern Virginia, shutting down multiple fake IT companies that were illegally hiring F-1 students under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
Fraudulent Companies Under Scanner
According to reports, one of the firms even listed a residential house as its official business address while claiming to employ dozens of foreign students. This triggered ICE to conduct detailed site inspections that exposed multiple sham setups.
ICE Reveals Findings from Raids
In an official statement, ICE said its officers discovered evidence of “noncompliance and potential fraud.” Investigators also found nonfunctional or staged worksites and supervisors who had no knowledge of basic employment regulations related to foreign students.
SEVIS Records Terminated for Affected Students
Following the raids, several students linked to these fake companies had their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records terminated by their Designated School Officials (DSOs). This immediately invalidated their F-1 visa status and revoked their legal right to work in the US.
Risk of Deportation Looms
With their visa status scrapped, many of these students are now at risk of detention or deportation. The incident has sent shockwaves through the international student community, especially among those under the OPT program.
Genuine Visa Holders Support Crackdown
Several F-1 and H-1B visa holders have supported the action, saying such fraudulent consultancies harm genuine candidates who follow all rules and still struggle to find fair employment opportunities in the US.
Call for Accountability Beyond Students
While ICE has not disclosed further details about the companies or individuals involved, many are urging authorities to hold the masterminds and consultancy owners accountable, not just the students. The community believes this step is vital to rebuild trust and ensure fairness in the system.
