The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a public advisory cautioning against visa fraud and the submission of false documents during visa applications. The advisory, released via the Mission’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, emphasized that individuals involved in visa-related fraud may face a lifetime ban from entering the United States.

According to the Mission, engaging in visa fraud not only risks permanent ineligibility for U.S. visas but can also attract criminal prosecution. The statement highlighted that coordinated efforts are in place across U.S. government agencies to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

“U.S. government interagency efforts combat fraud and will end illegal immigration. Those who commit visa fraud will be banned from the United States for life,” the Mission stated.

The Mission further warned that individuals who attempt to use falsified documents or participate in schemes to smuggle or harbour illegal immigrants could face legal consequences, including criminal charges.

“We will pursue criminal charges against those who engage in visa fraud and those who bring in and harbour illegal aliens,” the statement added.

The advisory aligns with the U.S. government’s ongoing measures to maintain the integrity of its immigration system and discourage any form of misrepresentation in visa applications.

The U.S. Mission concluded its message with a broader policy reminder, stating:

“A nation without borders is not a nation.”

This development serves as a caution to Nigerians and other nationals intending to apply for U.S. visas to ensure that their applications are truthful, accurate, and compliant with the required documentation standards.