Police in Anand, Gujarat, have arrested Hardik and Ankita Shah on charges of visa fraud. The number of victims has risen to 29 — all paid a consultancy for help finding jobs in Europe and Dubai but received fake electronic visas instead.
What Happened
According to police, the couple ran a consultancy that promised overseas employment. They took money from clients and issued forged e-visas. When the deception came to light, victims went to law enforcement. Two suspects are currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing; the victim count may rise further.
Who This Affects and Why It Matters
This is more than a crime story. It directly concerns anyone planning a trip abroad and using intermediaries. Scammers exploit unfamiliarity with visa procedures and the desire to save time. Remember: official e-visas are issued only through government portals or accredited visa centers. If an agency offers “guaranteed employment” and a visa for an extra fee, be suspicious.
How to Verify a Visa and Avoid Becoming a Victim
- Check visa status only on official websites. Most countries issuing e-visas have a public verification service (e.g., UAE via the ICP portal, Schengen via visa centers).
- Never transfer visa fees to personal accounts. Official fees are paid on government portals or at a bank. A request to send money to a private individual’s card is a red flag.
- Demand documents. A legitimate agency provides a contract, receipts, and contacts. Scammers usually avoid paperwork.
- Don’t believe in “visa without interview” or “100% guarantee.” Even with simplified procedures, the decision is made by a consulate or immigration service, not an agent.
The Payment Side: How to Pay for Visas and Bookings Safely
Paying visa fees or hotel bookings with a foreign card is standard. But this is where scammers often ask for direct transfers or use dubious payment links. Use virtual cards for one-off payments: they limit data exposure and help control charges. When booking hotels, watch for pre-authorization — a hold on your card. If a booking is canceled, refunds can take up to 30 days, and in a fake visa case, the money is likely gone.
For trips to Europe and the UAE, check the fee currency in advance: UAE e-visas are paid in dirhams, Schengen in euros. Bank conversion can increase the total. Also consider eSIM and taxi costs — paying with the same virtual card keeps your primary card out of sight.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
Contact the police and your card issuer immediately — the faster, the better the chance to dispute the transaction. Keep all correspondence, receipts, and screenshots. If your visa turns out to be fake, entry will be denied, and in some cases you may face deportation and a future entry ban.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always verify visa requirements on official government websites.
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