Trump Administration Launched Immigration Program Inquiries
The Department of Labor suspended PERM applications for nine universities amidst federal investigations into J-1 program usage.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Internships
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The Trump administration has launched investigations into nine universities regarding their use of the J-1 visa program. Simultaneously, the Department of Labor suspended all pending and future PERM applications for these institutions pending review.
Why it matters
The federal government alleges these universities utilized foreign researchers to undercut the pay of American graduate students. Officials are also examining potential issues involving foreign financial ties and influence within these research programs.
The investigation encompasses nine universities currently scrutinized for their use of the J-1 program. The Department of Labor has halted all PERM application processing for these specific organizations.
The players
Department of Labor
This federal agency is responsible for overseeing labor standards, workplace safety, and the processing of various employment-based immigration applications.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is the current President of the United States.
The details
The Department of Labor issued subpoenas to the targeted universities to determine if immigration filings accurately reflect recruitment, pay, and work arrangements. Investigators are specifically evaluating whether labor practices negatively impacted American researchers' compensation.
Timeline
Summer 2026: The DOL Inspector General announced the initial investigation foundation.
October 8, 2026: The administration announced the investigations and PERM application suspensions.
Market Landscape
This investigation into the J-1 visa program reflects a broader trend of federal scrutiny toward how academic institutions leverage international talent. It signals a potential shift in the competitive environment for research universities that rely on global staffing models.
American graduate students may see changes to research assistantship opportunities if universities must adjust staffing models in response to these federal probes. Prospective researchers should anticipate potential delays in international hiring timelines as institutions navigate the Department of Labor suspension.
The takeaway
These investigations signal a period of high uncertainty for universities heavily reliant on international research labor. Researchers should monitor their institutional policies closely as the Department of Labor continues its review of recruitment practices.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving federal oversight of academic labor by visiting the Internships section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fragomen - Immigration attorneys, solicitors, and consultants worldwide - Brazil: Visa Requirement Date for Nationals of Australia, Canada and the United States Postponed.
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