<h2>Hi</h2>
14 Jun 2011 02:16 PM
UK Border Agency warns of visa scams

News Release issued by the COI News Distribution Service on 14 June 2011

The UK Border Agency is warning people not to be taken in by scammers demanding cash in return for dealing with immigration cases.

The warning follows a report of an individual posing as a Border Agency officer and visiting a pensioner's home to ask for £1,350 to process his partner's visa.

The allegation is being investigated by the UK Border Agency security unit.

Jonathan Nancekivell-Smith, Director of Visa Services at the UK Border Agency said:

"UK Border Agency officers do not visit homes to collect cash payments and we have referred these allegations to our security team.

"Anyone who is approached in this way should contact the police.

"Details of how to pay for visas are included with our application forms and further information is available on our website."

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. For further information on how to apply and pay for visas to the UK, please visit the UKBA website: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/while-in-uk/

2. For media enquiries only please contact the Home Office Newsdesk on 0207 035 3535

Contacts:

Home Office Press Office
Phone: 020 7035 3535
NDS.HO@coi.gsi.gov.uk