Indian authorities have uncovered a large-scale H-1B visa fraud and fake degree network operating across the country. The scam reportedly provided fraudulent certificates to over one million people. Kerala police seized thousands of fake documents and arrested multiple individuals involved in the operation.
The investigation revealed that the network targeted jobs both in India and abroad, especially in the United States. Officials said the group supplied over 100 fake degrees in medical, nursing, and engineering fields. Authorities discovered that people paid large bribes to obtain visas using these counterfeit certificates.
Read more: US warns Indians of criminal penalties for illegal migration
Police recovered fake certificates and seals from 28 universities, while the central suspect, Dhanesh, was caught printing fraudulent degrees at his home. Investigators noted that at least 36,000 fake degrees were sold to Indians seeking H-1B visas. Experts claim this network issues over 200 visas daily, with 80 to 90 percent completely fake.
American officials, including CIS Director Jessica Wan, called the situation a major fraud affecting US immigration procedures. Indian-born US diplomat Mahwish Siddiqui also labeled Chennai’s consulate as a hub for the world’s largest H-1B visa scam. Authorities warned that many applicants only claimed to have degrees but had no real knowledge of their field.
Read more: US Visa Fee Hike Shatters Indian Tech Dreams
Police and immigration authorities are continuing the investigation, focusing on dismantling the network and preventing further misuse. They emphasized stricter verification procedures for foreign employment visas and warned students to avoid fake certificate schemes. The case has drawn international attention due to its scale and impact on US visa regulations.