Errors made by the visa applicant in regards to the Labor Condition Application (LCA) can cause significant problems and potentially jeopardize their chances of obtaining an H-1B visa. It’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that can lead to visa denials and inadmissibility determinations under INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i). Here are some frequent errors and their implications:
Misrepresenting the Terms of the Job Offer: Visa applicants must accurately represent the terms of the job offer in the LCA, including job duties, salary, and working conditions. Any misrepresentation can be considered fraud, leading to a visa denial. It’s essential to provide truthful and precise information to avoid accusations of misrepresentation.
Failing to Comply with the Prevailing Wage: The Department of Labor mandates that H-1B visa holders must be paid the prevailing wage for their job. If an applicant is paid less than the prevailing wage, it violates the LCA and can result in a visa denial. Ensuring compliance with wage requirements is critical to maintaining legal status.
Failing to Disclose Previous Immigration Violations: Visa applicants must disclose any previous immigration violations, such as overstays or unauthorized employment. Failing to disclose such violations can be considered fraud and result in a visa denial. Full transparency regarding immigration history is vital to avoid complications.
Failing to Comply with the Terms of the Visa: H-1B visa holders must adhere to the terms of their visa, including maintaining status, working only for the employer listed on the LCA, and not engaging in unauthorized employment. Non-compliance can lead to visa denial or revocation of visa status. Adhering strictly to visa terms helps ensure continued legal status in the U.S.
Failing to Notify the Department of Labor of Changes: Any changes to the job offer terms, such as job duties, salary, or working conditions, must be reported to the Department of Labor. Failure to report these changes can result in LCA violations and visa denial. Keeping the Department of Labor informed of any job-related changes is crucial.
If an H-1B visa applicant is accused of fraud under INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i), it’s imperative to take immediate action. Here are steps to potentially resolve the situation and overcome fraud accusations:
- Contact Us Immediately: Call us at 305-515-0613 or email us at info@messersmithlaw.com. Our experienced immigration attorney, with over 20 years of experience, can review your case and advise on the best course of action.
- Gather Evidence: We will help you gather evidence to refute the fraud allegations, ensuring you have a strong case.
- Cooperate with Authorities: We will guide you on how to cooperate fully with authorities, including attending interviews or providing additional documentation as requested.
If you have been accused of fraud or misrepresentation due to a misunderstanding involving your LCA, contact our office through our website or give us a call at 305-515-0613. We look forward to helping you win your case, as we have for thousands of other clients.