The Canadian government has issued a public warning that no individual or organization can guarantee approval of a Canadian visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). Anyone making such a claim is running a scam, the government stated.
How the Scam Operates
Fraudsters are reaching out to potential victims through multiple channels, including emails, phone calls, and text messages. They promise to secure immigration documents that they have no authority to deliver. According to Canada's official guidance, scammers often pose as immigration agents or consultants with special connections that allow them to fast-track or guarantee a visa outcome. This is false. The Canadian government makes clear that visa and eTA decisions rest entirely with its immigration authorities, and no third party can influence or guarantee those decisions.
Targets of these scams are frequently asked to pay fees upfront in exchange for the promised service. Once payment is made, the scammer either disappears or continues to demand more money without delivering any results. The government emphasized that legitimate immigration processes do not require such guarantees and that all applicants must go through the official channels.
Warning Signs of Immigration Fraud
Canada's immigration authority published guidance covering the warning signs of immigration fraud. These include unsolicited contact from someone claiming to be an immigration official, requests for payment via unusual methods such as wire transfers or gift cards, and promises of guaranteed outcomes. Legitimate consultants are registered and can be verified through Canada's official website. The government urges anyone contacted by someone claiming to guarantee a visa or eTA to treat it as fraud immediately.
Impact on Nigerians
Nigerians seeking to travel to Canada have increasingly become targets of immigration scammers, particularly as demand for Canadian visas has grown alongside the country's 'japa' trend. Many Nigerians are looking for opportunities abroad, and scammers exploit this desire by offering false hope. The Canadian government's warning is specifically aimed at helping Nigerians and other nationals avoid falling victim to these schemes.
Steps to Take If Targeted
The government urged anyone who is contacted by someone claiming to guarantee a Canadian visa or eTA to treat it as fraud. People who believe they have already fallen victim to such a scheme are encouraged to report the incident through the appropriate channels. The guidance includes how to verify legitimate immigration consultants and the steps victims can take after being defrauded. The full guidance is available through Canada's official government website.
In summary, the Canadian government advises all applicants to be vigilant and rely only on official sources for immigration information. No third party can guarantee a visa or eTA, and any such claim is a scam.
