The British High Commission launched an anti-visa fraud campaign in Haryana on 27 February 2026, targeting four specific districts to protect Indian nationals from immigration scams. This marks the third state for the initiative after Punjab and Tamil Nadu.
The campaign was launched in Sonipat with Haryana Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Gaurav Gautam and UK Home Office Acting Permanent Secretary Simon Ridley in attendance.
UK Visa Fraud Campaign Targets 4 Haryana Districts
The initiative will focus on Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal and Kurukshetra districts in coordination with the state government. UK teams will conduct outreach engagements in these areas to warn residents about common visa scams.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | 27 February 2026 |
| Target Districts | Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra |
| Previous States | Punjab, Tamil Nadu |
| Penalty for Fraud | 10-year UK travel ban |
According to the British High Commission, visa fraud often leads to heavy debt and risks of physical harm and exploitation. The campaign operates under the Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement between both countries to tackle irregular migration.
Common UK Visa Scams Identified in Haryana
The Commission identified specific fraudulent claims that target prospective UK travelers:
- Guaranteeing visa approval and UK employment
- Claiming no requirement for English-language tests like IELTS
- Charging exorbitant fees for visa services
- Making false promises about immigration processes
Indian travelers should verify all UK visa information through official channels. For comprehensive requirements and processes, check our detailed UK Visa Guide before starting any application.
Official Verification Channels for UK Visa Information
The British High Commission provides a dedicated WhatsApp chatbot at +91 70652 51380 for travelers to verify information and stay vigilant against fraud. This service helps distinguish legitimate visa processes from fraudulent schemes.
British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron emphasized the importance of using verified channels. She stated that the campaign’s expansion to Haryana demonstrates the UK’s commitment to ensuring prospective travelers access accurate information.
Use our Document Checklist to ensure you have all required papers for legitimate UK visa applications and avoid falling for document-related scams.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh Alba Smeriglio confirmed that preventing exploitation and irregular migration remains a shared priority between the UK and India.
Source: British High Commission, India
FAQ
Q: Which Haryana districts are covered by the UK anti-fraud campaign? A: The campaign covers Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal and Kurukshetra districts in coordination with the Haryana state government.
Q: What are the common visa fraud claims to watch out for? A: Common scams include guaranteeing UK visas, promising UK employment, claiming no IELTS requirement, and charging excessive fees for visa services.
Q: What happens if someone is caught committing UK visa fraud? A: Those caught committing visa fraud can face a 10-year travel ban to the UK, along with physical, financial and emotional risks.
Q: How can I verify UK visa information to avoid scams? A: Use the official WhatsApp chatbot at +91 70652 51380 or rely solely on verified British High Commission channels for accurate information.