The UK government has initiated a campaign targeting visa fraud and irregular migration in Jalandhar, Punjab, aimed at informing citizens about the dangers of visa scams and promoting legitimate pathways to the UK.
The campaign, titled ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ (Beware of Visa Fraud), is led by the UK embassy’s Chandigarh consulate and seeks to safeguard Indian citizens from physical, financial, and emotional consequences of fraudulent practices.
This initiative follows the recent deportation of illegal migrants from the United States, which has seen several flights arriving in Amritsar carrying over 300 passengers. It also comes in the wake of an investigation uncovering unauthorized immigration agents in Jalandhar, resulting in multiple FIRs.
Key Features of the Campaign:
- New WhatsApp support line: A dedicated helpline (+91 70652 51380) offers information and assistance in both English and Punjabi, helping individuals identify and avoid visa scams.
- Public outreach efforts: The campaign will engage communities in Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Chandigarh to educate them about prevalent fraud tactics.
- Raising awareness of scam tactics: The initiative will alert the public to false promises of employment in the UK, claims of no IELTS requirements, and inflated fees.
- Promotion of legal immigration routes: The campaign emphasizes using official and trustworthy channels for visa applications.
This initiative is part of the UK-India Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement, which aims to address the issues of irregular migration and visa fraud. With India accounting for nearly a quarter of all UK visas globally, one million visas are expected to be issued this year.
The campaign was officially launched at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar, with local dignitaries in attendance. The British Deputy High Commissioner to India underscored the need to protect young people’s aspirations and encourage safe, legal immigration pathways to the UK.
Individuals found guilty of visa fraud may face a 10-year travel ban to the UK.
