Crackdown on fraudulent immigration: Visa policies tighten, travel agents must be vetted

Harish Monga

Recent policy changes by the Canadian government regarding the deportation of students who entered the country through study visas and fraudulent means have raised significant concerns among immigration consultants and travel agencies. Observers believe this has led to reluctance among many license holders to renew their registrations, as they fear increased scrutiny and potential legal action.

The United States has also stepped up its crackdown on illegal immigration, deporting thousands of individuals, including students and workers who entered the country through unauthorized channels. Many of these deportations involve people who were misled by unscrupulous travel agents who promised guaranteed visas, job placements, or study programs without ensuring their legitimacy.

Growing issue of illegal immigration

Every year, thousands of students and job seekers from India, especially from Punjab, aspire to settle in **Canada, the US, the UK, and Australia in search of better opportunities. However, due to high competition and strict visa requirements, many turn to unauthorized immigration agents who offer them illegal shortcuts—such as fake college admissions, forged documents, or even illegal border crossings.

This has resulted in many students facing deportation after reaching their destinations, as authorities have uncovered organizations that have forged documents or failed to meet visa requirements. Hundreds of Indian students were deported from Canada in 2023 and 2024 after their admission letters were found to be fraudulent. The situation is no different in the US, where individuals who entered illegally or overstayed their visas are being forcibly deported.

Making fraudulent travel agents accountable

While governments are cracking down on illegal immigrants, the real culprits – fraudulent travel agents and consultants – often escape punishment. These agencies exploit vulnerable candidates, making false promises of permanent residency and high-paying jobs. Many people also charge exorbitant fees while making forged documents, which puts students and workers in legal trouble abroad.

Punjab authorities have now started suspending the licenses of travel agencies that fail to follow the rules. However, strict enforcement is needed to identify and punishthose who mislead people for illegal migration. The public should also be made aware of certified immigration procedures to avoid falling into such traps.

A message for the youth: Choose legal and skilled routes

Aspiring students and professionals should prioritize skill development and higher qualifications to secure legal immigration opportunities. Countries like Canada and the US prefer highly skilled workers in fields like IT, healthcare and engineering. Instead of resorting to fraudulent methods, youth should:
– Choose government-approved education and job programs
– Apply through legal immigration channels with verified documents
– Consider career opportunities within India in emerging sectors like technology, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship

A successful future abroad should be built on competence and legality, not deception and desperation. Those aspiring to settle internationally should prepare well, follow legal procedures, and avoid agents offering shortcuts—or they will face serious consequences.

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