Work Visa Fraud: Ahmedabad Company Duped of ₹1.23 Crore
An Ahmedabad-based businessman was allegedly defrauded of ₹1.23 crore by a Noida-based consultancy firm under the pretense of securing work visas for Australia and New Zealand.
Details of the Incident:
- Initial Contact: In November 2023, the Noida firm approached the Ahmedabad businessman, offering assistance in obtaining work visas for Australia and New Zealand.
- Payments Made: The businessman transferred a total of ₹1.44 crore to the consultancy for processing the visas.
- Issuance of Fake Visas: The Noida firm sent eight New Zealand work visas to the businessman. Upon verification, these visas were found to be counterfeit.
- Partial Refund: After discovering the fraud, the businessman demanded a refund. The consultancy returned ₹20.45 lakh, leaving ₹1.23 crore unpaid.
Legal Action:
The Ahmedabad-based company has filed a complaint against the Noida firm, leading to a police investigation into the matter.
Preventive Measures Against Visa Frauds:
- Verify Credentials: Always check the authenticity and track record of consultancy firms before engaging their services.
- Direct Communication: Consider applying for visas directly through official government channels to avoid intermediaries.
- Be Skeptical of Guarantees: Be cautious of firms that promise guaranteed visas, especially for countries with stringent immigration policies.
- Consult Official Sources: Refer to official embassy or consulate websites for accurate information on visa procedures and authorized agencies.
By staying vigilant and informed, individuals and businesses can protect themselves from falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.