A sweeping investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has exposed a major visa scam in Punjab, revealing how immigration agents have used fake documents, short-term loans, and illegal routes to help people get U.S. visas. The crackdown, which began in early 2025 and continues to widen, has already led to raids, asset seizures, and criminal charges against several firms and individuals. This case highlights the risks faced by visa seekers and the urgent need for stronger rules in the immigration consultancy industry.
How the Scam Worked and Who Was Involved
The ED’s investigation has focused on three main Punjab-based firms: Red Leaf Immigration Private Limited, Overseas Partner Education Consultants, and Infowiz Software Solution. These companies, operating mostly in Chandigarh and Ludhiana, are accused of running a network that helped people get visas for the United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom 🇬🇧, and Canada 🇨🇦 using illegal methods.
- Red Leaf Immigration Private Limited acted as a key coordinator, managing a network of middlemen who manipulated the visa process.
- Overseas Partner Education Consultants provided short-term loans to visa applicants. These loans were used to temporarily boost the applicants’ bank balances, making it look like they had enough money to qualify for a visa.
- Infowiz Software Solution allegedly produced fake documents, including birth certificates and educational degrees, for clients who did not meet the real requirements.
According to ED officials, these agents often worked together but sometimes operated independently. They targeted people who wanted to work or study abroad but did not have the right qualifications or enough money to meet visa requirements. The agents charged high fees, which depended on the type of visa and the level of fake documentation needed.
“In many cases, fabricated educational or professional experience certificates were provided to applicants who would otherwise be ineligible. The fee was determined based on the level of education or duration of work experience needed,” an ED official explained.
Recent Raids and What Was Found
On July 11, 2025, the ED carried out raids at seven locations across Punjab and Haryana, including Mansa, Kurukshetra, and Karnal. These searches were part of the ongoing “Donkey Route Case,” which refers to illegal journeys made by land through several countries, often controlled by international criminal groups.
During these raids, the ED seized:
- ₹19 lakh in cash
- Forged emigration stamps and fake visa templates
- Numerous digital devices
- A large number of incriminating documents
The evidence showed that these items were used to create fake visas and manipulate migration records. The ED also found that the money earned from these scams was used to buy properties and was moved through many bank accounts to hide its source. In July 2025, the ED attached properties worth ₹7.31 crore in Ludhiana and Mohali, believing they were bought with money from these illegal activities.
How the Scam Targeted Visa Applicants
The visa scam in Punjab worked through several steps:
- Forged Documents: Agents created fake educational degrees, work experience certificates, and birth certificates for clients who did not qualify for visas.
- Financial Manipulation: Large sums of money were temporarily deposited into applicants’ bank accounts to make them look financially stable. After the visa was approved, the money was withdrawn, and the agents took a commission.
- Donkey Route Facilitation: Some agents arranged for clients to travel abroad using illegal land routes, known as “donkey routes.” These journeys were dangerous and often involved crossing several countries without proper documents.
- Use of Technology: Agents used encrypted messaging apps and international phone numbers to communicate with partners abroad and avoid being caught.
Who Has Been Charged?
Several individuals have been named in the investigation, including:
- Amandeep Singh and Poonam Rani (Red Leaf Immigration)
- Ankur Kehar (Overseas Partner Education Consultants)
- Akshay Sharma, Kamaljit Kansal, Rohit Bhalla, and Kirti Sood (various roles)
These agents often ran small offices with little or no signage, making it hard for authorities to track them. They are now facing charges of cheating, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the Immigration Act, and the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023.
How the Investigation Started
The current probe began after the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Overseas Criminal Investigations noticed a rise in visa applications from Punjab with fake documents and suspicious bank balances. The embassy reported these cases to Indian authorities, leading to First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by Punjab and Delhi Police.
In September 2024, Punjab Police booked seven people and companies, including Red Leaf and Overseas Partner, for visa fraud. The ED then joined the investigation, focusing on money laundering and the movement of illegal funds.
Recent Deportations and the Human Impact
The crackdown comes after a wave of deportations from the United States 🇺🇸. In February 2025 alone, more than 330 Indian immigrants were sent back, with flights landing in Amritsar and New Delhi. Many of these people had entered the U.S. using fake documents or through illegal routes arranged by agents.
For the deported individuals and their families, the consequences are severe. They face criminal charges in India, possible blacklisting by foreign embassies, and a lifetime ban from applying for visas again. Many have lost their life savings to agents who promised them a better future abroad.
What This Means for Visa Applicants
Anyone found to have used fake documents or lied about their finances can be prosecuted under Indian law. They may also be banned from applying for visas to the United States 🇺🇸 and other countries in the future. The ED has warned that the investigation is ongoing, and more people may be charged as new evidence comes to light.
For those who have been victims of fraudulent agents:
- Cooperate fully with authorities if contacted.
- Keep all documents and proof of payments made to agents.
- Report fraud to local police, the ED, or the U.S. Embassy’s fraud prevention unit.
- Use official channels for complaints and whistleblowing. The ED has set up hotlines and email addresses for this purpose. For more information, visit the Enforcement Directorate’s official website.
Impact on the Immigration Consultancy Industry
This visa scam has put the spotlight on the need for stricter rules and better oversight of immigration consultancies in Punjab and across India. Many agents operate without proper registration or checks, making it easy for scams to happen. The ED and police are now calling for:
- Stricter regulation of immigration consultancies
- Better verification of supporting documents
- Closer cooperation between Indian and foreign law enforcement agencies
U.S. Embassy officials have said they will continue to work with Indian authorities to fight visa fraud and protect the immigration process. Law enforcement in Punjab and Haryana have formed Special Investigating Teams (SITs) to coordinate with the ED and foreign agencies, with more arrests expected.
Expert Opinions and Official Statements
ED officials have described the scam as “sophisticated and widespread,” noting that many agents used complex financial tricks to hide illegal money. They also pointed out that the scam has hurt the reputation of honest visa applicants from Punjab and made it harder for genuine students and workers to get visas.
A senior ED officer stated, “We are committed to dismantling these networks and ensuring that only genuine applicants are able to pursue opportunities abroad. The use of forged documents and illegal funds undermines the integrity of the entire immigration system.”
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the exposure of this visa scam in Punjab is likely to lead to tighter rules for both applicants and agents, with embassies increasing their scrutiny of documents and financial records.
What Should Visa Seekers Do Now?
If you are planning to apply for a visa to the United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom 🇬🇧, or Canada 🇨🇦, keep these tips in mind:
- Never use fake documents or allow anyone to submit false information on your behalf.
- Avoid agents who promise guaranteed visas or ask for large sums of money to “fix” your application.
- Check if your agent is registered with the proper authorities.
- Keep all receipts and written agreements with agents or consultancies.
- Report any suspicious activity to the police, the ED, or the embassy.
For official information on U.S. visa requirements and fraud prevention, visit the U.S. Embassy in India’s fraud prevention page.
What’s Next in the Investigation?
The ED has said that the investigation is far from over. More raids and asset seizures are expected in the coming months, and authorities believe they will uncover additional networks, including international partners. Policy reforms are also being discussed to make it harder for unregistered agents to operate and to improve information sharing between countries.
Key Takeaways for the Community
- The visa scam in Punjab has exposed serious weaknesses in the immigration consultancy industry.
- The Enforcement Directorate is taking strong action against agents and firms involved in fraud, including seizing assets and filing criminal charges.
- Visa applicants who use fake documents or lie about their finances face serious legal consequences, including prosecution and lifetime bans.
- Honest applicants should use only official channels and avoid agents who offer shortcuts or illegal services.
- The case has led to calls for stricter rules and better cooperation between Indian and foreign authorities.
Practical Steps for Victims and Whistleblowers
If you believe you have been a victim of a visa scam or know someone involved, you can:
- Contact the Enforcement Directorate through their official website or hotline.
- File a complaint with local police or the U.S. Embassy’s fraud prevention unit.
- Gather all evidence of payments, documents, and communications with agents.
By taking these steps, you can help authorities stop visa scams and protect others from falling victim.
Conclusion
The visa scam uncovered in Punjab by the Enforcement Directorate is a warning for anyone seeking to move abroad. While the dream of a better life in countries like the United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom 🇬🇧, or Canada 🇨🇦 is strong, it is important to follow the law and use only honest, official channels. The crackdown on fraudulent agents shows that authorities are serious about protecting the integrity of the immigration process and ensuring that only genuine applicants succeed.
For more details on the Enforcement Directorate’s actions and how to report visa fraud, visit the official ED website. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always choose the legal path when planning your journey abroad.
Learn Today
Enforcement Directorate (ED) → Indian government agency investigating financial crimes like money laundering and visa fraud.
PMLA → Prevention of Money Laundering Act, a law targeting laundering of illegally obtained money.
Donkey Route → Illegal land migration paths crossing multiple countries, often controlled by criminal groups.
Visa Scam → Fraudulent activities using fake documents and financial manipulation to acquire visas unlawfully.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita → New Indian criminal code enacted in 2023, covering offenses including immigration fraud.
This Article in a Nutshell
A major Punjab visa scam exposed by the Enforcement Directorate reveals fake documents, temporary financial boosts, and illegal routes used to secure US visas illegally.
— By VisaVerge.com
