Three of the world’s most popular study-and-work destinations just declared war on fake agents — together.
For the first time, the British, Canadian, and Australian High Commissions have launched a single, hard-hitting campaign to wipe out the criminal networks that promise “guaranteed visas” and disappear with millions.
Why They’re Teaming Up Now
Fraudsters have gone high-tech and ruthless:
- Fake job offers that vanish after payment
- Bogus admission letters from real universities
- “Fast-track” promises that lead straight to 10-year bans
British High Commissioner Dr Richard Montgomery put it bluntly: “These criminals don’t just steal money they destroy lives and trap people in trafficking networks.”
The Real Cost of Falling for a Scam
If you pay a fake agent, here’s what usually happens:
- Visa refused the moment fraud is detected
- 10-year ban from UK, Canada, or Australia
- No refund — ever
- Some victims end up in forced labour abroad
Red Flags Every Applicant Must Know
The three missions released one simple checklist:
Anyone who says “100% visa guaranteed” is lying only immigration officers decide, ❌ Agents who rush you with “offer expires today” deadlines ❌ Anyone asking you to skip biometrics or lie on forms ❌ Requests to pay fees into personal accounts instead of official channels
The Safe Way Forward
Use only official government websites:
- gov.uk
- canada.ca
- homeaffairs.gov.au
Report suspicious agents immediately your tip could save the next victim.
Canadian High Commissioner Pasquale Salvaggio summed it up: “We want genuine students and workers to reach our countries safely. Fraudsters have no place in that future.”
The message is clear: play by the rules, or risk losing a decade of your dreams.
