The Diplomatic Missions of the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have jointly announced the launch of the #FightingVisaFraud campaign, a coordinated international initiative designed to protect people, families, and communities from the growing threat of visa fraud and immigration-related scams.
The three countries share long-standing partnerships, common values, and a strong commitment to safe, fair, and transparent migration pathways.
They work closely together on immigration, border integrity, and security issues, and this campaign builds on the collective outcomes of the Five Country Ministerial.
It reflects their shared dedication to strengthening global cooperation and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, nationality, gender, or economic status, can pursue legitimate travel opportunities without fear of exploitation.
Protecting People. Strengthening Systems. Promoting Safer Migration.
Launched during International Fraud Awareness Week (16–22 November), the #FightingVisaFraud initiative marks an unprecedented level of collaboration among the governments to address a global challenge that affects millions.
Visa fraud has become increasingly sophisticated, with criminal networks targeting people seeking education, work, family reunification, or safer opportunities abroad.
These scams do not discriminate, students, skilled workers, families, and vulnerable individuals are frequently misled by false promises.
Victims are often told they can obtain guaranteed visas, jobs without proper qualifications, or expedited processing in exchange for high fees.
Instead, many face financial loss, visa refusals, legal consequences, travel bans, or, in the most tragic cases, trafficking and exploitation.
The three countries have identified common patterns of fraudulent activity affecting visa applicants.
‘This campaign represents our shared commitment not only to safeguarding the integrity of our immigration systems but also to protecting people from harm and supporting safe, legitimate migration routes.
Leadership Statements
Dr. Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, emphasized the human impact of visa fraud:
“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.”
Mr. Pasquale Salvaggio, Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, highlighted the shared responsibility to protect people:
“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.”
How Prospective Applicants Can Stay Safe
To support individuals and communities navigating visa processes, the UK, Canada, and Australia strongly encourage all prospective applicants to:
- Use only official government websites for information and application processes
- Verify that any immigration adviser or consultant is properly registered and regulated
- Be cautious, no one can guarantee a visa
- Watch out for warning signs such as:
- demands for excessive or upfront fees
- pressure to make quick payments
- offers to bypass standard requirements
- promises of employment without required qualifications
- Report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities
These steps help ensure safer migration decisions and protect families and communities from avoidable risks.
Where to Find Legitimate Information
- United Kingdom – check here.
- Canada: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – Canada.ca
- Australia: Department of Home Affairs – homeaffairs.gov.au
Consequences of Visa Fraud
Attempting to obtain a visa through fraudulent means carries serious consequences, including:
- visa refusals and long-term travel bans (up to 10 years)
- financial loss with no recovery options
- potential criminal prosecution
- increased exposure to human trafficking and forced labour
- long-term damage to immigration records
“Our governments work together and with international law enforcement partners to detect, investigate, and prosecute individuals and networks engaged in fraudulent immigration facilitation”, their joint statement reads.
If You Suspect Visa Fraud or Believe You Are a Victim
- United Kingdom: Report online via Action Fraud – (Action Fraud provides a national fraud reporting and advice centre for individuals and small businesses.)
