US visa scam: FIA registers case over alleged fraud

US visa scam: FIA registers case over alleged fraud

Authorities have launched an investigation into an alleged US visa scam case after reports came to light about forged documents being used to secure American visas.

A case has been registered against several people after uncovering what they say was an organised effort to obtain US visas using fake documents, ARY News reported.

Official records state that one person who is currently in custody paid $30,000 to secure a US visa.

Investigators found that at least 12 individuals were given forged paperwork. This included a fake letter claimed to be issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The main suspect has been identified as Pir Alaa Syed Saifuddin, also known as Usmani Gilani, a cleric from Kot Momin.

Another accused, Rab Nawaz, is said to have worked with him in the visa business, the report says.

Investigators also found that a false letter was prepared for a supposed conference on Sufism in the United States.

Sources said the group also provided fake documents to a senior civil judge who was seeking a US visa.

Pir Usmani Gilani is also reported to have obtained his own US visa through similar methods.

The Federal Investigation Agency carried out a raid in Kot Momin to arrest the cleric.

However, Pir Gilani managed to flee before the operation was completed, reports suggest.

The investigation is still underway, and authorities say efforts are ongoing to arrest all those involved.

Visa scams in Pakistan

Separately, the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment Pakistan has warned citizens about work visa scams.

On December 04, 2025, the bureau advised people not to deal with travel agencies that claim to arrange foreign work visas.

The bureau stated that such agencies have no legal connection with overseas employment and should not be paid any fees.

It stressed that only licensed Overseas Employment Promoters are allowed to send workers abroad.

Citizens were urged to verify recruitment agents through the official list available on the bureau’s website.

Read more: US immigrant visa suspension: Pakistan in contact with Washington, says FO