US Embassy Cancels 2,000 Visa Appointments in India Over Fraud Allegations

The United States Embassy in India has taken a firm stance against fraudulent activities in the visa application process. On Wednesday, the embassy announced the cancellation of over 2,000 visa appointments, citing serious violations in the appointment scheduling system by malicious actors.

In an official statement, the embassy revealed that it had detected multiple instances of fraudulent bookings made through automated bots and unauthorized agents. Consequently, it has revoked these appointments and suspended the scheduling privileges of the associated accounts to prevent further misuse.

Zero Tolerance Policy for Fraudulent Agents and Fixers

The US Embassy in India reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and integrity in the visa issuance process. Highlighting its strict stance, the embassy stated:

“Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies.”

This statement, posted on Twitter (now X), was accompanied by an official notice that provided further details about the fraudulent activities. The notice specified:

“Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are canceling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts’ scheduling privileges.”

The embassy emphasized that it remains committed to preventing fraud and ensuring that only legitimate applicants receive visa appointments.

Delhi Police Investigates Visa Fraud Linked to Agents

As part of the broader crackdown on fraudulent visa activities, the Delhi Police registered a case on February 27 against several visa and passport agents following a complaint from the US Embassy. The complaint alleged that these agents had engaged in deceptive practices by submitting forged documents to secure US visas for applicants.

According to the embassy, an internal investigation was conducted between May and August last year. This probe led to the identification of approximately 30 agents operating from multiple IP addresses.

These agents were believed to be linked to visa consultants, document vendors, passport delivery services, and education consultants, all of whom were allegedly involved in unlawful activities.

The investigation is currently ongoing, with authorities working to dismantle the network of fraudulent agents.

Visa Cancellations Amid Stricter US Immigration Policies

The large-scale cancellation of visa appointments comes at a time when the US is intensifying its efforts to curb illegal immigration. The move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader immigration policies, which include cracking down on unauthorized entry into the country through illegal channels, such as the ‘donkey’ route.

Since Donald Trump assumed office two months ago, thousands of individuals have been deported as part of his commitment to strengthening US border security and preventing immigration fraud.

The cancellation of fraudulent visa appointments in India is seen as a continuation of these policies, ensuring that the US visa process remains fair and transparent.

Key Takeaways from the US Visa Fraud Crackdown

What Led to the Visa Cancellations?

• The US Embassy identified fraudulent activities involving automated bots and unauthorized agents.

• Over 2,000 visa appointments were revoked due to violations in the scheduling process.

• Scheduling privileges of the associated accounts were suspended.

Role of Delhi Police in the Investigation

• A case was registered against multiple visa and passport agents.

• The US Embassy reported that these agents used forged documents to secure visas.

• An internal probe conducted between May and August last year linked 30 agents to multiple fraudulent activities.

US Embassy’s Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Fraud

• The embassy reaffirmed its commitment to fighting visa fraud.

• Automated bots and unauthorized agents attempting to manipulate the scheduling system will face strict action.

• Further anti-fraud measures will be implemented to safeguard the integrity of the US visa process.

Implications for Indian Visa Applicants

• Genuine applicants are advised to book appointments through official US Embassy channels.

• Engaging unauthorized agents or fixers may result in visa denial and legal consequences.

• The embassy urges applicants to remain vigilant against fraudulent practices.