How to avoid immigration and visa-agent fraud in Punjab

Quick answer. To avoid immigration fraud in Punjab, only deal with an agent whose licence you can verify on the official government register, never pay the full fee in cash upfront, get everything in writing, and be suspicious of any "guaranteed" visa. An estimated 92% of Punjab's agents operate without proper central authorisation, so verifying the licence is your best protection.

How big is the problem

A UNODC study estimated about 25,000 Punjab families were defrauded of roughly ₹1,250 crore by fake travel agents, and a Ministry of External Affairs report found around 92% of Punjab's agents operating without proper authorisation, with only ~212 centrally registered. Verification is not paranoia here — it is the norm you should insist on.

Red flags before you pay

A "100% guaranteed" visa or PR (no genuine agent can guarantee a government decision); pressure to pay the entire amount in cash immediately; refusal to share a licence number; no written contract or receipt; asking you to sign blank forms; or promising to "manage" documents or funds for you. Any one of these is a reason to walk away.

How to protect yourself

Verify the agent's licence on the official register first. Pay in traceable ways (bank transfer, UPI) with receipts. Keep copies of every document and agreement. Never hand over original passports or certificates without a receipt. If you have been defrauded, report to your district police and the Punjab NRI Affairs department.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if an agent has cheated me?

Report to your district police (many Punjab districts publish FIRs against fraudulent agents) and to the Punjab NRI Affairs department. Keep all receipts, chats and agreements as evidence.

Sources

Browse agents: Amritsar register · Jalandhar register · Gurdaspur register

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Reviewed against official government sources; figures that change (fees, fund thresholds) are dated and linked — always verify at the source. — Recepta Editorial.

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Last updated: 2026-07-13