2010 Press Releases

U.S. Consulate Warns Public Against Visa Fraud

February 2, 2010
Jerusalem

As part of ongoing efforts to promote legitimate travel to the United States, members of the Visa Unit of the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem met with media outlets to discuss a recent increase in the number of visa applicants presenting incomplete or misleading information, and to raise public awareness about how to avoid fraud and how fraud negatively affects a person’s eligibility to travel to the United States.

During the roundtable discussion, Consulate officials warned against individuals, organizations or businesses, including service offices and travel agencies, claiming to have exclusive connections with or authorization from the Consulate. U.S. Consulate Fraud Prevention Manager Sara Greengrass said, “Such claims are not true. The U.S. Consulate does not endorse or have a "special relationship" with any individual or service office that offers advice or assistance with the visa process.” Ms. Greengrass further explained that there is no requirement that applicants use the services of a third party; and, that no organizations are given special appointment scheduling privileges or faster processing times. She noted that under U.S. law, the Consulate is prohibited from releasing information about the status of a visa application to third parties, including service offices or travel agents.

The officers offered the following tips to prospective visa applicants:

  • Visa applicants are responsible for ensuring that the information in their applications is complete and truthful, regardless of who completes the application form.
  • Presenting fraudulent documents can result in a visa denial, and may make an applicant permanently ineligible to travel, work or immigrate to the United States.
  • Only a U.S. consular officer can adjudicate a visa application. People and organizations that claim they can guarantee a U.S. visa in exchange for a fee are dishonest and are committing fraud.
  • The best way to qualify for a visa is to present a complete and accurate application and to fully inform the interviewing consular officer of your intentions and circumstances.


If visa applicants suspect someone of committing visa fraud, Ms. Greengrass asked that they report it immediately to the Consulate. The information provided will remain confidential and only be reviewed by U.S. Government employees working on the respective visa case. To report visa fraud, send an email to JerusalemFPU@state.gov.

For more information please contact the U.S. Consulate General’s Press Office at 02-622-6908.

###

Email this