The Diplomatic Missions of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have launched a campaign against visa fraud in order to protect victims from exploitation by fraudulent immigration facilitators.
In a joint statement on Monday, the missions said the campaign would raise awareness of the consequences of visa fraud.
It said the fraud costs victims millions of pounds annually and puts vulnerable people at risk of exploitation, financial ruin and legal consequences.
The #FightingVisaFraud campaign was launched during the International Fraud Awareness Week from Nov. 16 to Nov. 22.
According to the missions, fraud and illegal immigration facilitation have reached alarming levels globally, with criminal networks using sophisticated tactics to deceive prospective visa applicants.
“Victims are often promised guaranteed visas, jobs without proper qualifications, or expedited processing in exchange for exorbitant fees. The reality is financial loss, visa refusals, travel bans and, in the worst cases, trafficking and exploitation.”
The statement quoted British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, to have said that visa fraud destroys dreams and devastates families.
Montgomery said criminal facilitators prey on people’s legitimate aspirations for a better life, stealing their money and putting them at risk of harm.
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“Through this joint campaign with our international partners, we are sending a clear message, use only official channels, verify all advice, and report suspicious activity.
“The UK welcomes legitimate visa applications through proper routes but those who attempt fraud face serious consequences, including 10-year travel bans,” he said.
Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Pasquale Salvaggio, said Canada was committed to working with international partners to combat visa fraud and protect people from exploitation.
According to him, the campaign reflects the missions shared values and determination to maintain fair, secure immigration systems while supporting those who legally seek to travel, study or work.
In the statement, the missions urged prospective visa applicants to use only official government websites for visa information and applications.
“Verify immigration advisers are properly registered and regulated, be suspicious of guarantees as no one can guarantee visa approval.
”Watch for warning signs including demands for excessive fees, pressure to pay quickly, promises of jobs without proper qualifications, or offers to bypass standard requirements and report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
“People who attempt to obtain a visa through fraudulent means face serious consequences, including visa application refusal, travel bans of up to 10 years, financial loss with no recourse, criminal charges in some jurisdictions, and exploitation and trafficking risks.”
To find legitimate information, visa applicants are to visit www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration for the United Kingdom and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada-Canada.ca for Canada.
(NAN)