The United Kingdom (UK) has reportedly issued entry bans to more than 1,000 Ghanaians after uncovering widespread visa fraud involving falsified documents and misrepresentation during visa applications.
The UK authorities issued 10-year visa bans to 1,632 Ghanaians after uncovering the use of fraudulent documents in their visa applications.
The number represents four per cent of all Ghanaian applicants for UK visas last year.
“In 2024, 1,632 applicants from Ghana used fraudulent means when applying for UK visit visas. While that represents only four per cent of all Ghanaian applicants, it is still far too many people misled by agents into taking an action that resulted in a 10-year visa ban.
“Fraud is never worth the risk,” the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr Christian Rogg, said when the High Commissions of Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom in Ghana joined forces to launch a one-week public awareness campaign aimed at tackling the growing threat of visa fraud.
In a statement, it noted that visa fraud remains a persistent problem for many Ghanaians, with fake agents and misinformation causing significant financial losses, emotional strain, and long-term travel restrictions.
The three high commissioners explained that the campaign is part of a global initiative led by UK Visas & Immigration and supported by countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
“The campaign coincides with International Fraud Awareness Week (November 16–22, 2025) and seeks to educate the public on the dangers of visa scams, promote safe application practices, and encourage the use of official government channels,” it said.
Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Berenice Owen-Jones, also underscored the importance of the initiative, stressing her country’s commitment to combating visa fraud.
“The Fighting Visa Fraud campaign sends a clear message — if you are applying for a visa, always use trusted, official sources and beware of anyone promising shortcuts or guaranteed results,” she said.
Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, reiterated Canada’s dedication to protecting applicants and ensuring safe, legal migration pathways.
“Canada remained firmly committed to promoting safe, orderly and regular migration, and we are taking decisive steps to stop fraudulent practices that put applicants at risk.
“We are proud to collaborate on the ‘Fighting Visa Fraud Together’ campaign with Australia and the United Kingdom, reflecting our shared commitment to protect applicants, strengthen the integrity of our immigration systems, and ensure that people have access to accurate, reliable and trustworthy information.”
According to the statement, the three countries are committed to safeguarding genuine applicants and maintaining visa processes that are transparent, secure, and accessible to all Ghanaians.
“Throughout the campaign, the High Commissions will share educational content across social media platforms.
The public is encouraged to follow the campaign using the hashtag #AUSCANUKGH,” it emphasised.
