The UK Government launched the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign on 27 February to safeguard Indian citizens from the financial, emotional, and physical risks associated with visa fraud and irregular migration.
As part of the initiative, a dedicated WhatsApp support line (+91 70652 51380) has been introduced in English and Punjabi. This helpline aims to educate individuals on common visa scam tactics and provide access to official guidance on legal travel routes to the UK.
The campaign was officially launched at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar, in the presence of LPU Chancellor and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal.
In addition to the WhatsApp support line, the initiative will highlight warning signs of fraudulent visa schemes. People will be advised to stay alert to misleading claims such as guaranteed jobs in the UK, exemption from English-language tests (IELTS), and excessive fees.
Visa fraud often results in individuals facing unmanageable debt, exploitation, and even physical harm. Those found guilty of visa fraud could face a 10-year travel ban to the UK. Under the Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement, both India and the UK have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing irregular migration. This campaign represents a step forward in the joint effort to combat visa fraud and protect vulnerable individuals.
British Deputy High Commissioner to India, Christina Scott, emphasized the significance of legal travel routes, stating, “The opportunity to visit, study, and work in the UK has never been greater and Indian nationals continue to receive the largest share of UK visit and work visas. However, young peoples’ dreams are being exploited, and too many are becoming victims of visa fraud. That’s why we are launching the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ campaign. The campaign seeks to raise awareness of the risks and help people to check the facts on safe and legal routes to the UK.”
Echoing this sentiment, British Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh, Caroline Rowett, acknowledged Punjab’s history of ambition and hard work, adding, “Punjab is known for its hardworking and ambitious people who have made significant contributions both in the UK and globally. We want to ensure that these dreams are fulfilled safely and legally. We urge people to spread the ‘Visa Fraud Ton Bacho’ message and help protect individuals from falling victim to fraudulent agents.”
 in English and Punjabi, offering guidance on legal travel routes and common scam tactics.){kind=link}