New Delhi | March 21, 2025: In a major crackdown on visa fraud, Delhi Police’s Crime Branch has registered a case against 31 agents for allegedly forging documents to secure US visas illegally. The action follows a complaint from the US Embassy, which uncovered a well-organized racket charging applicants between ₹1 lakh and ₹50 lakh for fake passports, forged bank statements, and fabricated employment records.
US Embassy Uncovers Shocking Visa Scam
The US Embassy identified 21 applicants who used fraudulent documents to obtain visas. The scam, which was active between May and August 2024, involved agents operating in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
During their investigation, officials found that some applicants paid up to ₹50 lakh to travel illegally. In one shocking case, an individual was deported and jailed after attempting to enter the US via Vietnam, Qatar, and Senegal using fake credentials.
Sharp Rise in Visa Fraud Cases
According to Delhi Police’s IGI Airport Unit, visa-related fraud has surged 107 percent compared to 2023. Here’s a breakdown of arrests made in 2024:
Visa Fraud Cases in India (2024 Data)
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Total arrests (2024) | 203 (107% increase from 2023) |
| Major states involved | Punjab (70), Haryana (32), Delhi (25), Uttar Pradesh (25), West Bengal (17) |
| Fraud amount charged | Rs 1 lakh to Rs 50 lakh per applicant |
| Common fraud methods | Fake bank statements, forged employment records, fake educational certificates, fake visa stamping |
| High-profile case | Victim paid Rs 50 lakh for US entry via Vietnam, Qatar, and Senegal, but got deported |
How the Scam Worked
Fraudsters lured applicants by promising a “guaranteed visa” for a hefty sum. The forged documents included:
- Fake bank statements to meet financial requirements
- Tampered educational certificates to qualify for student and work visas
- Forged employment records for job-based immigration
- Fake visa stamps to bypass embassy scrutiny
Criminal Charges and Raids Underway
Delhi Police have booked the accused under the following laws:
- Sections 318, 336, and 340 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act (for online fraud)
Multiple raids are being conducted to track down other members of the network.
US Embassy Demands Strict Action
The US Embassy has termed the fraud a serious security threat and has urged Delhi Police and the Indian government to expedite the investigation. With the US tightening immigration rules, authorities are expected to increase scrutiny on visa applications from India.
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A Warning for Visa Applicants: Don’t Fall for Scams
Authorities warn applicants to be cautious when dealing with visa agents. Any promise of a “guaranteed visa” should raise red flags. Before applying, always:
- Verify credentials of visa consultants
- Cross-check documents with the official embassy website
- Avoid shortcuts—fraudulent applications can lead to legal consequences
