Chandigarh, February 26 – Following Punjab and Tamil Nadu, the UK launched the “Protect Yourself from Visa Fraud” campaign in Haryana on Thursday, aiming to help Indian nationals avoid the physical, financial, and emotional risks associated with visa fraud and irregular migration.
The campaign was launched at an event in Sonipat, attended by Minister of State for Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Gaurav Gautam and UK Home Office Acting Permanent Secretary Simon Ridley.
It will focus on the districts of Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal, and Kurukshetra, in collaboration with the state government.
The campaign encourages prospective travelers to the UK to verify information and stay vigilant through a dedicated WhatsApp chatbot (+91 70652 51380).
As part of the initiative, UK teams will conduct outreach engagements in these areas, highlighting the warning signs of visa scams.
People will be advised to be wary of common false claims, such as the promise of guaranteed visa and UK employment, being told that English-language tests, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), are not required, and being asked to pay exorbitant fees.
Haryana is the third state in India where the campaign has been launched. The UK launched the first pilot project in Punjab in February 2025 and further expanded it to Tamil Nadu in December 2025.
British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, said that the expansion of the “Protect Yourself from Visa Fraud” campaign to Haryana underscores the United Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring that prospective travelers have access to accurate and authoritative information.
“We want every applicant to know that trustworthy guidance is available, that the UK values their aspirations, and that no one should fall victim to those who exploit them. I encourage all those considering travel to the UK to rely solely on verified channels, including our WhatsApp chatbot, to ensure their safety and wellbeing.”
British Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh, Alba Smeriglio, said that preventing exploitation and irregular migration remains a shared priority for the UK and India.
“With tools like our Hindi-enabled WhatsApp chatbot, the UK’s “Protect Yourself from Visa Fraud” campaign will help people in Haryana recognize and avoid visa scams. We thank the government of Haryana and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for their strong support and partnership.”