Pakistan, US to jointly crack down on fraudulent visa networks

1 week ago

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States have agreed to take joint action against fraudulent visa networks, as both countries step up efforts to curb illegal immigration and document-related crime.

The decision was made during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker, where the two sides discussed closer coordination under “comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs)” to deal with organised visa fraud.

Officials said the talks reflected a growing focus on strengthening cooperation in areas that affect both countries, especially immigration controls, law enforcement coordination, and border security.

Joint SOPs to target visa fraud and fake documentation

According to a handout issued by the interior ministry, the meeting concluded with an understanding that both sides would work together against “false and fraudulent visa networks,” which have been operating through agents and informal channels.

These networks often exploit vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities abroad, promising work permits or visas through illegal means. In many cases, such schemes end in financial loss, deportations, and legal consequences for applicants.

The new plan aims to create clearer mechanisms for information-sharing and joint action so that the people behind these operations can be identified and prosecuted more effectively.

Pakistan adopts zero-tolerance policy against “agent mafia”

During the discussion, Interior Minister Naqvi said Pakistan had adopted a zero-tolerance policy against groups involved in illegal immigration facilitation and visa fraud.

He stated that the government was actively taking action against what he called the “agent mafia,” and added that he was personally supervising efforts to dismantle these networks.

Naqvi also made it clear that there would be no leniency for those involved in producing or arranging fake documents, calling them a major threat not just to Pakistan’s reputation but also to the safety and future of citizens who fall into such traps.

New security features added to passports

In a key development, the interior minister said Pakistan had introduced new security features in passports using modern technology, claiming these changes would make the travel document more secure and difficult to tamper with.

While details of the technology were not shared publicly, the move appears aimed at reducing identity fraud, preventing forged documents, and making it harder for illegal immigration facilitators to exploit weaknesses in documentation.

Officials see this as part of a larger effort to modernise the travel and identity system and improve trust in Pakistani documents internationally.

Illegal immigration sees reported decline

Naqvi acknowledged that illegal immigration had become a serious issue in recent years and said the government’s recent measures had helped reduce the trend.

He claimed there had been a 47 per cent drop in illegal immigration, linking the decline to stricter enforcement and improved controls.

The issue has remained sensitive for Pakistan, as illegal immigration incidents often lead to international scrutiny, travel restrictions, and tougher visa requirements, affecting legitimate travellers and students as well.

US highlights importance of Pakistan relationship

US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker, according to the official statement, said Washington attached “special importance” to its relationship with Pakistan.

She noted that both countries share aligned priorities on key issues and that improving cooperation would further strengthen bilateral ties.

Her remarks were viewed as a signal that the United States is interested in maintaining steady engagement with Pakistan, particularly on security and governance-related matters.

Expanded cooperation on law enforcement and police training

Beyond immigration fraud, both sides also discussed expanding cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

The meeting included talks on increasing collaboration in police training, which could involve capacity-building initiatives, improved investigation methods, and technical support to help Pakistani authorities deal with organised crime and cross-border networks.

Officials described the discussion as part of broader efforts to develop practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest, rather than limiting engagement to diplomacy alone.

A crackdown with regional and global impact

Observers believe the agreement comes at a time when many countries are tightening immigration rules and increasing scrutiny of visa processes. For Pakistan, cracking down on fraudulent networks could help improve the country’s international standing and reduce risks faced by genuine travellers.

At the same time, authorities stress that public awareness is critical, since many scams operate openly through informal agents offering “guaranteed visas” and shortcuts that ultimately lead to legal trouble.

The joint effort, if implemented effectively, may become a key step in breaking organised immigration fraud operations and protecting individuals from exploitation.