Year-end data released on the USCIS immigration fraud crackdown
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has released year-end figures outlining the scope of its immigration fraud enforcement activity, reporting tens of thousands of referrals, investigations, site visits, and social media reviews conducted since Jan. 20 as part of what the agency described as a firm stance against fraud in the U.S. immigration system.
In a public statement, USCIS said there is “no room for immigration fraud” and emphasized that individuals who attempt to exploit the lawful immigration system will not be allowed to remain in the United States. The agency attributed its enforcement posture to leadership priorities under Donald J. Trump, stating that immigration fraud enforcement has been a central focus since the start of the current administration.
According to the figures released, USCIS issued more than 29,000 fraud referrals during the reporting period. These referrals represent cases identified by the agency as potentially fraudulent and forwarded for further review or action through established enforcement and investigative channels.
The agency said it investigated more than 19,300 fraud cases and determined that fraud was present in approximately 65 percent of those cases. USCIS did not provide a breakdown of the types of applications involved or the specific forms of fraud identified, but confirmed that the percentage reflects completed investigations reviewed by the agency
In addition to case referrals and investigations, USCIS reported conducting more than 6,500 site visits. These site visits are used to verify information provided in immigration benefit applications and petitions, including details related to employment, business operations, and other qualifying criteria tied to lawful immigration status.
USCIS also reported completing more than 19,500 social media checks as part of its fraud detection activity. The agency has previously stated that publicly available information may be reviewed to help confirm application details and identify potential misrepresentation. The year-end figures reflect the total number of such checks conducted during the reporting period.
The agency’s statement said the combined enforcement activity demonstrates its approach to identifying and addressing fraud across the immigration system. USCIS reiterated that fraud undermines the integrity of lawful immigration processes and stated that enforcement actions are intended to prevent individuals from taking advantage of the system.
USCIS did not announce new policies or regulatory changes alongside the release of the figures. The agency also did not specify how many of the fraud cases resulted in benefit denials, removals, or referrals for criminal prosecution, nor did it provide comparative data from previous years.
The year-end update was presented as a summary of enforcement-related activity rather than a comprehensive audit of all USCIS operations. The agency said it remains focused on administering immigration benefits in accordance with U.S. law while identifying and addressing fraudulent activity when it is detected.
USCIS is responsible for administering immigration benefits such as visas, work authorization, permanent residency and naturalization. Fraud detection is carried out through internal review processes and, when appropriate, coordination with other federal authorities.
In its statement, USCIS emphasized that its enforcement actions are directed at fraud and misrepresentation, not at individuals who comply with legal requirements. The agency said it will continue to deny benefits to those found to have engaged in fraudulent conduct.
The figures were released as part of an end-of-year review highlighting enforcement outcomes tied to immigration fraud. USCIS did not indicate whether similar data releases would occur on a regular basis or whether enforcement levels would change in future reporting periods.
The agency concluded its statement by reaffirming its position that safeguarding the lawful immigration system remains a priority and that fraud detection and enforcement efforts will continue as part of its mission.
Readers are encouraged to continue following Unitedpac St Lucia News for further updates on U.S. immigration policy and enforcement developments.
