The United States has launched an online portal allowing members of the public to report suspected visa fraud and misuse, in a move aimed at strengthening the screening of people seeking to enter the country.
The U.S. Department of State announced the new platform on Monday, October 19, encouraging anyone with information about possible visa fraud to submit it for review and investigation.
The portal provides a direct channel through which members of the public can share information that could help authorities identify and stop the misuse of U.S. visas, a development that could affect Kenyans applying to travel to the country if allegations of fraud involving their applications are reported.
According to the department, all reports of suspected visa fraud or misuse will be taken seriously, with officials reviewing the information and taking appropriate action to enforce U.S. laws.
A photo collage of travellers checking in at JKIA (left) and a rejected Schengen Visa.
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KAA / Schengen News
“The State Department launched a new online visa fraud tip portal so the public can help identify and stop suspected fraud and misuse of U.S. visas,” the State Department said.
The department urged people submitting reports to provide as much detail as possible, noting that information identifying the person suspected of fraud could improve the chances of a successful investigation.
The online form developed by the U.S. authorities allows users to report suspected fraud anonymously.
Applicants can provide details such as the suspected individual's name, passport number, visa number, date of birth, address, email address and telephone numbers, where available.
The launch comes as the administration of President Donald Trump continues to emphasise immigration enforcement and scrutiny of visa applications.
In August, the U.S. Department of State warned visa applicants against submitting fraudulent documents, cautioning that false information could trigger further action by American authorities.
The department said consular officers who detect fraudulent documents or information suggesting that an applicant could pose a threat should immediately alert relevant U.S. government agencies for further investigation and appropriate action.
The warning also came as the U.S. moved to strengthen screening and enforcement measures affecting foreign travellers, including changes to the visa bond programme for certain business and tourism visa applicants.
A VIP plane at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and an insert of U.S. President Donald Trump.
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Kenyans.co.ke