Peak of fake UK visa applications start Aug.

INQUIRER.net
Posted date: August 21, 2009

MANILA, Philippines—August to Christmas is the peak period for the submission of fake documents for visa applications to the United Kingdom, the UK embassy here said as it intensifies its drive against fraudulent visa applications in the country during this period.

Law enforcement agencies both in the Philippines and the UK continue to work together to identify not only those who submit fake documents for their visa applications, but also those who supply these fake documents, the embassy said in a statement warning against the practice.

Ed Mackie, UK Border Agency regional manager for northeast Asia and Australasia, said his office has been catching an increasing number of fraudulent applications over the years, from 584 in 2007 to 657 last year.

“We will continue our efforts,” he said. “All applications are checked thoroughly.”

Mackie said fraudulent applications are referred to the National Bureau of Investigation- Interpol Division. In operation since June 2007, this referral system has caught over 100 fraudsters.

To reduce such applications, he said his office is also seeking that maximum penalties possible be imposed on offenders.

Filipinos who provide or submit forged visa documentation may be arrested and will be banned from making further applications for up to ten years, according to the UK embassy.

“We have also introduced state-of-the-art online visa application and payment technology which will dramatically aid our efforts to stamp out fraudulent and forged applications,” Mackie said.

All applicants are required to submit their biometric details (fingerprint scans and digital photo) and these records will be used to ensure that future applications from individuals who have used false or fraudulent documents are refused without question, the embassy said.

“We welcome genuine Filipino travelers to the UK, but it is an offense to submit forged documents to support your visa application. If you do, there is a high risk you will be caught and arrested,” Mackie said.

He advised travelers to the UK to personally apply for UK visa through the Visa Application Centre, which will ensure the application is accurate.

“If you do choose to pay an agent to manage the application, it is important to make sure they are properly licensed. You can find all the information you need online or by contacting the call centre. It is your responsibility to check your documents carefully and make sure they are genuine,” Mackie added.