The trio of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have launched a campaign to combat visa fraud in Nigeria and protect people from exploitation by fraudulent immigration facilitators.
The #FightingVisaFraud campaign was launched during International Fraud Awareness Week (November 16-22) and represents an unprecedented level of cooperation between the three countries to tackle a shared global threat that costs victims millions of pounds annually and puts vulnerable people at risk of exploitation, financial ruin and legal consequences.
Visa fraud and illegal immigration facilitation have reached alarming levels globally, with criminal networks using increasingly 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,” a joint statement shared with Business Post said.
Our countries have identified common patterns of visa fraud affecting their immigration systems. “This coordinated campaign demonstrates the three countries’ commitment to protecting legitimate visa applicants while maintaining the integrity of their immigration systems and secure borders” the statement added.
Speaking on the development, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Richard Montgomery said, “Visa fraud destroys dreams and devastates families. Criminal facilitators prey on people’s legitimate aspirations for a better life, stealing their money and putting them at risk of serious harm. 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.”
On his part, the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Pasquale Salvaggio added, “Canada is committed to working with our international partners to combat visa fraud and protect people from exploitation. This campaign reflects our shared values and determination to maintain fair, secure immigration systems while supporting those who seek to travel, study or work through legitimate pathways.”
Prospective visa applicants were urged to only use official government websites for visa information and applications; verify immigration advisers are properly registered and regulated; be suspicious of guarantees, no one can guarantee visa approval.
Other measures including watching out 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.