The US State Department has launched a dedicated online portal allowing the public to report suspected visa fraud and misuse involving people, companies, schools and other entities.Announcing the initiative on X, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said, “A US visa is a privilege, not a right,” urging people to share information that could help authorities identify and act against suspected visa violations.The new reporting system covers several categories, including tourist and business visas, employment visas, student visas and immigrant or family-based visas. It also allows reports involving other forms of suspected immigration or visa fraud.The department has asked those filing complaints to provide as much information as possible about the person or organisation involved. Details may include a person’s name, passport or visa number, A-Number, petition or receipt number, date of birth, address, contact details, nationality and social media profiles.Reports can also be filed against companies, educational institutions, law firms and other organisations. Users can provide details such as the organisation’s name, address, website, contact information and the names of people associated with it.The portal allows complaints to be submitted anonymously. However, people who provide their name and email address may be contacted by investigators if further information is required.The State Department said reports should include details of the activity believed to involve visa fraud or misuse, along with any additional information or updates about a matter that may have been reported previously.The department warned that knowingly submitting false information could result in fines, imprisonment, or both.According to the department’s privacy notice, information submitted through the portal may be used to initiate or support law-enforcement investigations and reviews of immigration-related actions. The information may also be shared with other US or foreign law-enforcement agencies where appropriate.The State Department said its fraud detection and prevention efforts are aimed at stopping attempts to enter the US through fraudulent means or for illegal purposes. It cited examples including falsified documents or travel plans, sham marriages, shell companies, fabricated job offers and birth tourism.The department said suspected criminal activity unrelated to the US immigration system should instead be reported to the appropriate law-enforcement or government authorities. Immediate threats to national security or public safety should also be reported through the relevant emergency channels.
