Canada Visa Scam: Man Cheated Out of ₹58 Lakh in India
In 2016, Ramesh Patel, a resident of Gotri in Vadodara, Gujarat, was approached by Ramesh and Heena Baldania, who claimed they could secure him a Canadian work permit and permanent residency due to their purported connections in Canada. They agreed upon a fee of ₹60 lakh, with Patel transferring ₹57.90 lakh to Heena's bank account. The Baldanias assured Patel that he would receive his visa within 18 months and promised a refund if they failed to deliver.
After two years without progress, Patel contacted the Baldanias, who cited their daughter's wedding in Canada as a reason for the delay and requested additional time. Despite waiting another 18 months, Patel neither received the promised visa nor a refund. Consequently, he filed a complaint at the Gotri police station against Ramesh, Heena, and their daughters, Nidhi and Rucha Baldania, alleging fraud and breach of trust.
Key Takeaways:
- Be Cautious of Unverified Claims: Exercise caution when individuals claim to have special connections or guarantees for visa approvals.
- Insist on Written Agreements: Always have detailed written agreements outlining the services to be provided, timelines, and refund policies.
- Verify Credentials: Conduct thorough background checks on agents or consultants, including verifying their licenses and seeking reviews or testimonials.
- Be Wary of Upfront Payments: Avoid making large upfront payments. Reputable consultants typically have transparent fee structures and may offer payment plans tied to milestones.
- Consult Official Sources: Rely on official government websites or authorized agencies for information and assistance regarding visa applications.
This incident underscores the importance of due diligence and caution when seeking immigration assistance to avoid falling victim to fraud.