UK, Canada and Australia Launch Joint Initiative to Tackle Growing Visa Fraud

The governments of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have jointly launched an international campaign aimed at combating visa fraud and protecting individuals from exploitation by fraudulent immigration agents.

The campaign, tagged #FightingVisaFraud, was announced during the International Fraud Awareness Week, according to a statement from the British High Commission in Abuja.

The three countries said the initiative seeks to raise awareness about the severe impact of visa fraud, noting that their immigration systems have continued to face similar patterns of fraudulent activity.

According to the statement, visa fraud costs victims millions of pounds each year, exposing vulnerable people to exploitation, financial loss and legal troubles.

It also warned that perpetrators face stiff penalties, including 10-year travel bans, visa refusals, criminal charges in some jurisdictions, and heightened risks of exploitation and trafficking.

“The United Kingdom, Canada and Australia share strong historical ties, common values and close cooperation on immigration and security matters.

“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 statement read.

The High Commission noted that the coordinated campaign underscores the three nations’ commitment to safeguarding genuine visa applicants while protecting the integrity of their immigration systems and borders.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. 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.”

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.”

The three countries advised visa applicants to rely solely on official government websites, ensure advisers are registered, avoid excessive or rushed payment demands, and stay alert to unrealistic job promises or attempts to bypass standard procedures.

They also emphasized that their immigration authorities collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute visa fraud and illegal facilitation.

Legitimate visa information can be found on the countries’ official sites:

• United Kingdom: gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration
• Canada: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – Canada.ca

For suspected visa fraud or to report victimization:

• United Kingdom: Report online via Action Fraud – actionfraud.police.uk
• Scam-avoidance guidance: gov.uk/government/publications/frauds-tricks-and-scams

The statement added that the campaign is being implemented separately by each country in line with their national priorities. Resources such as warning signs of visa fraud and applicant guidance are being shared through their official social media channels.

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