U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has increased its focus on employer compliance, and one of the most visible tools is the unannounced site visit. These inspections are conducted by officers from the Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) directorate and are designed to confirm that the details in immigration petitions match what is happening in the workplace.
With the expansion of compliance programs and the implementation of the H-1B Modernization Rule in 2025, employers should expect more frequent and detailed site inspections. For companies that employ foreign nationals, being prepared is not optional — it is essential.
Why Site Visits Happen
USCIS conducts site inspections to:
- Verify that employees are working in the roles, locations, and conditions described in their petitions.
- Confirm that the employer is a legitimate, functioning business.
- Detect possible fraud or misrepresentation.
- Ensure compliance with wage and work location requirements, including remote and hybrid arrangements.
In some cases, site visits are random. In others, they are triggered by data analysis, complaints, or specific risk factors.
What to Expect During a Site Visit
FDNS officers may arrive without notice. Once on-site, they typically:
- Review immigration petitions and supporting documentation.
- Ask to see I-9 records.
- Interview HR staff, managers, and the sponsored employee.
- Visit workstations and take photographs of the premises.
- Confirm wage and job duty information.
These visits may also extend to third-party client sites if the employee is placed offsite.
Steps to Take Before a Site Visit
Preparation should begin long before an officer arrives:
- Keep records current: Ensure that all immigration files, including job descriptions, wage documentation, and worksite addresses, are accurate and accessible.
- Train reception and staff: Front-desk employees should know how to politely greet officers, verify identification, and immediately notify the appropriate internal contact.
- Designate a point of contact: Employers should have a clear chain of responsibility, with a primary and backup contact for site visits.
- Coordinate with counsel: Have a protocol in place to notify your immigration attorney as soon as a visit begins. Legal counsel can guide you on how to respond to requests during the inspection.
What to Do During the Visit
- Stay calm and cooperative: Professionalism goes a long way in minimizing disruption.
- Verify officer credentials: Always ask for identification and a business card.
- Engage the right staff: Only designated personnel should interact with officers regarding immigration matters.
- Take notes: Document the officer’s name, contact information, the questions asked, and any documents or photos requested. Share these notes with counsel immediately after the visit.
Why Preparation Matters
Unannounced site visits have become a regular part of USCIS’s compliance strategy. A lack of preparation can result in delays, unnecessary confusion, or even negative findings. By contrast, maintaining organized records, training staff, and involving legal counsel can demonstrate good faith compliance and help protect both the employer and the sponsored employees.
Final Thoughts
For companies that employ foreign nationals, immigration compliance must be part of day-to-day operations — not an afterthought. A well-prepared organization can manage site visits efficiently and reduce risks.
At NPZ Law Group, we help employers prepare for FDNS inspections, train staff on response protocols, and ensure petitions remain compliant with USCIS requirements.
For guidance on site visit preparedness, contact us at 201-670-0006 or visit www.visaserve.com
Top 5 Tips for Employers Facing USCIS Site Visits
- Train your front desk staff – They are the first point of contact.
- Verify officer ID – Always ask for credentials before providing information.
- Notify your attorney immediately – Involve legal counsel as soon as the visit begins.
- Keep records ready – Job descriptions, wages, and I-9s should be accurate and up to date.
- Document the visit – Take detailed notes for your records and share with counsel.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.