Canada Visa Fraud: IRCC Warns Indians on Fake Agents

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a warning to Indian nationals after uncovering a surge in fraudulent activities linked to Canada-bound visa applications.

Authorities said scammers are posing as immigration officials on social media, demanding “cash-only” payments without receipts and issuing forged documents. In some cases, applicants have been tricked into transferring visa fees via email, phone or informal bank transfers.

A recent case in Gujarat highlighted the growing threat. A 22-year-old man from Mehsana district was deported from Dubai after his Canadian visa was found to be fake. The matter is now under police investigation. Reports suggest such forged visas are being sold through illegal networks at prices ranging from USD 25,000 to 40,000.

Officials stressed that only agents registered under India’s Emigration Act, 1983 are legally permitted to offer overseas placement services. Fraudulent practices can attract severe penalties under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including charges of cheating and human trafficking.

The Indian government has urged applicants to use the eMigrate portal to verify agents before proceeding with applications. IRCC has also reminded applicants to pay fees only through official Canadian government channels and to be cautious of unsolicited contacts offering guaranteed approvals.