The International Technological University (ITU) has agreed to settle allegations related to student visa fraud. ITU will pay the United States $1.17 Million under the qui tam (whistle blower) provisions of the False Claim Act.

ITU is a non-profit educational institution located in Santa Clara, California. The organization participates in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program which is a component within the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). HSI certifies educational outlets that focus on enrolling non-immigrant students to qualify for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. For individuals to qualify for a visa under the Program, a foreign national must first apply and be admitted to an approved U.S. educational institution. Then, they can submit a visa application to the Department of State.

This investigation is based on allegations between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2015 that ITU did not comply with federal immigration laws regarding student visas. The investigation was brought by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG).

The allegations claim ITU had knowingly submitted false forms for foreign nationals hoping to qualify for a student visa. As a result, ITU allegedly deprived the United States of visa application fees.

If you have questions regarding the Student and Exchange Visitor Program or any visa related concerns, contact us at ILBSG to get the right advice. Our experienced attorneys work to understand your specific needs, providing expertise guidance for any circumstance.

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