The United Kingdom has launched a campaign to combat visa fraud and protect applicants from exploitation by fraudulent immigration facilitators.
Fraudulent activities by criminals and scammers cost victims millions of pounds annually and expose vulnerable people to exploitation, financial ruin, and legal consequences—both in Bangladesh and worldwide.
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, according to the British High Commission in Dhaka.
The reality is financial loss, visa refusals, travel bans and, in the worst cases, trafficking and exploitation, it said.
The UK government urged visa applicants to rely only on official sources, stressing that applications must be submitted through the official website — www.gov.uk.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said, “Visa fraud destroys dreams and devastates families. Criminal facilitators prey on people’s aspirations for a better life, stealing their money, and putting them at risk of serious harm. Our message is clear: 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.”
