Summary
- The US State Department said the initiative would help authorities identify fraudulent visa applications and travel arrangements and take action against those involved.
- The State Department said tips from members of the public had helped officials identify thousands of people suspected of attempting to misuse the US visa system.
- The State Department said activities involving birth tourism could also fall under visa misuse when they involve efforts to circumvent US immigration and visa requirements.
The United States has launched a new online portal allowing members of the public to report suspected visa fraud and misuse.
The US State Department said the initiative would help authorities identify fraudulent visa applications and travel arrangements and take action against those involved.
According to the department, the new reporting system provides a convenient way for people to submit information about suspected violations. The reports will be reviewed by relevant authorities for possible investigation and further action.
The State Department said tips from members of the public had helped officials identify thousands of people suspected of attempting to misuse the US visa system. It encouraged people with credible information to report suspected fraud through the newly introduced platform.
The department said its Bureau of Consular Affairs has intensified fraud detection and prevention efforts under the Trump administration. The measures are aimed at preventing people from entering the United States through fraudulent means or for unlawful purposes.
Visa fraud can take several forms, including submitting forged documents, providing false travel plans and arranging sham marriages. Authorities also identified the use of shell companies and fabricated employment offers as potential forms of fraud.
The State Department said activities involving birth tourism could also fall under visa misuse when they involve efforts to circumvent US immigration and visa requirements.
US authorities said fraudulent schemes can have wider consequences beyond the visa process. The department argued that such activities can affect communities, the economy, employment and public safety.
The department said it would enforce US immigration and visa laws against individuals found violating the rules. Possible measures include visa revocation and referral of cases to law-enforcement agencies for further investigation.
Earlier this month, the State Department said more than 175,000 visas belonging to foreign nationals had been revoked under the Trump administration.
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