How to Reporting Immigration Crime and Expose Fake Documents in India
Many Indians dream of working, studying, or living abroad. Sadly, scammers often take advantage of this dream by running immigration fraud schemes. These include fake visa offers, forged documents, and dishonest agents who promise quick approvals for large sums of money.
If you have faced or witnessed such fraud, reporting immigration crime is vital. It protects others from falling into the same trap and helps maintain fairness in India’s immigration system.
Legal Framework for Reporting Immigration Crime in India
India has strict laws to prevent and punish immigration fraud. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 replaced the old Indian Penal Code and introduced clear rules on forgery, cheating, and the use of false documents. It works alongside the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, which deals with illegal immigration and cross-border crimes.
Key Legal Sections Under BNS 2023:
Section 316 – Cheating:
This law applies when a visa agent or consultant takes money by making false promises of jobs, visas, or immigration help.
Section 335 – Making a False Document:
This covers cases where someone creates or uses a fake ID, forged visa, or any false electronic record.
Section 336 – Forgery:
This section punishes anyone who changes or makes fake documents to trick others.
Section 340 – Using Forged Documents:
This law applies to people who knowingly use fake passports, visas, or certificates.
All these offences can result in imprisonment, heavy fines, or both.
How to Report Immigration Crime: Step-by-Step
1. Gather All Proof
Before filing a complaint, collect as much evidence as you can:
- Documents: Keep copies of fake visas, job letters, and payment receipts.
- Messages: Save all emails, texts, and chat records with the agent or consultant.
- Personal Details: Note down names, phone numbers, and addresses of everyone involved.
2. File a Police Complaint (FIR)
Go to your nearest police station and file a First Information Report (FIR). Tell the officer that your case involves immigration fraud.
Under BNS Section 336(3), forgery done for cheating is a cognisable offence. This means the police must accept your complaint and start an investigation.
If the fraud happened online, report it on the National Cyber Crime Portal at cybercrime.gov.in. Clearly mention that it relates to immigration fraud or fake documents.
3. Contact Relevant Authorities
Report the fraud through any of the following government offices.
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA):
You can report embassy or NRI visa fraud through the eMigrate Portal. You may also email your complaint to vigilance@mea.gov.in.
- Bureau of Immigration (BOI):
The BOI looks into fake travel papers and immigration fraud that happen within India.
- Foreign Embassies or Consulates:
If the scam involves a foreign visa, contact the respective embassy or consulate in India for help.
4. Report Lost or Misused Passports
If your passport is stolen or misused, file an FIR immediately. Then contact the Regional Passport Office (RPO) and apply for a duplicate passport through the Passport Seva Portal.
Handling Immigration Fraud: What You Should Do
- If You’re a Victim (Individual)
- Stop making any more payments immediately.
- Speak to a trusted immigration lawyer in India for clear legal guidance.
- Be honest about everything that happened.
If you used a fake document without knowing, say so. Telling the truth can help you avoid strict punishment. Do not try to fix the issue by using another false visa or certificate. It will only make things worse.
- If You’re a Company or Institution
If your company finds that an employee used fake immigration papers, report it right away. Acting quickly protects your business from being blamed. Always check every visa or immigration document carefully before approving it.
The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 gives more power to the Bureau of Immigration. It helps the Bureau work closely with state governments to catch fraudsters, deport offenders, and stop illegal immigration.
(Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India)
Recent Legal Case Updates
- State of Karnataka v. John Doe (2024):
The High Court punished a man for using a fake Canadian visa. The court said that using forged immigration papers is a crime, not a simple civil issue.
- Sushil Suri v. CBI:
The Supreme Court explained that to prove forgery or cheating, there must be clear proof that the person meant to deceive. If there is no intent, the charge cannot continue.
When to Seek Legal Help
If you are a victim of a visa agent scam, face OCI card cancellation, or are involved in an immigration dispute, contact a trusted immigration lawyer in India.
A skilled lawyer can:
- Help you prepare and submit the right documents.
- Represent you before the court or authorities.
- Make sure your rights are protected at every step.
LawCrust’s immigration services include:
- Business and corporate immigration support.
- Help with passport renewal delays.
- Defence in deportation cases.
- Assistance with citizenship renunciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I report a visa agent scam anonymously?
Yes. You can file an anonymous complaint. However, for an official FIR, you must provide your details.
2. What if I paid for fake documents without knowing?
Contact an immigration consultant lawyer immediately. If you cooperate with authorities, you may be treated as a victim.
3. Is fake visa documentation a crime?
Yes. It is a criminal offence under BNS Sections 335–340.
4. How can NRIs report immigration fraud?
NRIs can file complaints through Indian embassies or consulates or use the MEA’s online grievance portal.
5. What should I do if my passport is stolen?
Report it to the police right away, then inform the Regional Passport Office (RPO) and apply for a replacement.
6. Does the BNS cover digital forgery?
Yes. Section 335 includes fake e-visas and digital forgeries.
7. Can a lawyer help in deportation cases?
Yes. A deportation lawyer can represent you and safeguard your rights in court.
Conclusion
India’s new laws, such as the BNS 2023 and the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, send a strong message that fraud is a serious crime and will not be accepted.
By reporting scams and checking documents carefully, you help protect honest travellers and keep the immigration system fair.
When people stay alert and act responsibly, India’s immigration process becomes safer, clearer, and more trustworthy for everyone.
About LawCrust
LawCrust Legal Consulting, part of LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd., is a top-tier law firm offering trusted immigration and legal consulting services.
With 50+ offices across India and 70+ expert lawyers, LawCrust handles:
- Immigration fraud India and fake visa cases
- Embassy fraud complaints and cross-border crime reports
- Deportation immigration lawyer services
- Business immigration and visa consultant disputes
LawCrust Legal Consulting, a subsidiary of LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd., is a leading firm in the legal industry. We offer a wide range of premium services, including Litigation Finance, Legal Protect, Litigation Management, Startup Solutions, Funding Solutions, Hybrid Consulting Services, Mergers & Acquisitions, and more. With over 50 offices across India and a team of more than 70 specialised lawyers, we provide top-notch support for a variety of legal matters.
LawCrust Groups is a conglomerate of companies, including LawCrust Realty, LawCrust Ventures, LawCrust Hybrid Consulting, LawCrust Technology, LawCrust Foundation, and LawCrust Consumer Products.