The diplomatic missions of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have rolled out a coordinated campaign to curb visa fraud, warning that criminal networks are increasingly targeting people seeking legitimate travel, study or work opportunities.

The #FightingVisaFraud initiative, unveiled during International Fraud Awareness Week, which spanned from November 16 to 22, marks an expanded level of cooperation among the three countries.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, the missions said the effort builds on commitments made under the Five Country Ministerial, and reflects a shared determination to confront a global problem that costs victims millions and exposes many to serious risks.

The statement noted that fraudulent agents continue to deceive applicants with promises of guaranteed visas, fake job offers and quick processing in exchange for hefty fees. Many victims, it added, end up facing visa refusals, financial losses, travel bans, or, in severe cases, exploitation and trafficking.

“Our countries have identified common patterns of visa fraud affecting their immigration systems. This coordinated campaign demonstrates the three countries’ commitment to protecting legitimate visa applicants while maintaining the integrity of their immigration systems and secure borders,” they said.

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, said the damage caused by these schemes is profound. He warned that criminal facilitators “prey on people’s legitimate aspirations for a better life,” often leaving families devastated. He urged applicants to rely only on official channels, verify all advice and report suspicious activity, adding that those who attempt fraud face consequences that include 10-year travel bans.

Canadian High Commissioner Pasquale Salvaggio said the campaign reflects long-standing cooperation and shared values among the three countries. He stressed that the goal is to protect people from exploitation while preserving fair and secure immigration pathways.

Officials from the missions advised applicants to use only official government websites, ensure that any adviser is properly registered and watch for red flags such as unusually high fees, pressure to make quick payments or assurances that standard rules can be bypassed.

“Be suspicious of guarantees. No one can guarantee visa approval,” the guidance said.

The missions also cautioned that the consequences of visa fraud can be severe. Offenders may face lengthy travel bans, criminal sanctions, or become more vulnerable to trafficking networks, with no means to recover lost money.

They noted that immigration authorities in all three countries continue to work closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute offenders. Accurate information is available on official government portals, including gov.uk for the UK and Canada.ca for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Suspected fraud targeting the UK can be reported through Action Fraud.

Campaign materials and guidance will be shared on the missions’ social media platforms. Although jointly coordinated, each country will handle its own implementation based on national priorities.