The US immigration authorities have pinpointed around 100 H-1B visa cases associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles. This revelation came in response to a senator’s concerns, with USCIS Director Joseph B. Edlow confirming the scrutiny of H-1B petitions filed between fiscal years 2021 and 2024. Edlow mentioned that these cases involved positions with references to ‘diversity’, ‘equity’, ‘inclusion’, or similar terms, indicating a DEI focus.
As part of a broader policy initiative under President Donald Trump, the review is part of efforts to address DEI programs. Notably, Trump had issued an Executive Order titled ‘Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing’. Additionally, a presidential proclamation from September 19, 2025, imposed restrictions on certain nonimmigrant workers, including specific H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025, subject to a $100,000 payment.
Describing the review as an essential step to reform the H-1B visa program, USCIS aims to prevent abuses and safeguard American workers. Edlow highlighted ongoing efforts within the agency to develop policy updates to address potential misuse of the H-1B program through DEI initiatives. USCIS expressed its commitment to collaborating with lawmakers to implement necessary legislative or regulatory measures to uphold American values and prioritize American interests.
