The Consulate’s Fraud Prevention Unit uncovered the racket, in which film actors or directors used their position to lend credibility to a second unqualified applicant. The unqualified applicants paid up to Rs 5 lakh to a “visa consultant” and the accompanying actor or director.

Immigration records show that the majority of those who received visas are illegally present in the US. Their identities have been passed on to the US law enforcement authorities. However, in accordance with the US law, the Consulate does not disclose the names of visa applicants to the public.  While the Consulate welcomes all legitimate travellers, anyone committing fraud to obtain a visa can be charged with crimes in the US as well as in India. The film actors, directors and their companions who used fraudulent documents have received a lifetime ban from ever travelling to the US.

According to Consul General David Hopper, “The Consulate’s action should not be viewed as a condemnation of the south Indian film industry.  The Consulate acknowledges the artistic and commercial successes that have made this industry known around the world. We also recognise and welcome the increasing technical and artistic collaboration between Indian film makers and those in other countries, including the US. It is unfortunate that some people have misused the well-earned reputation and stature of the Indian film industry for illegal purposes.”

Visa applicants can find free and complete information about visa requirements and the application process from the Consulate and VFS, the Consulate’s authorized visa appointment services provider.For more information on the visa application process at the US Consulate General - Chennai please visit: http://chennai.usconsulate.gov and VFS: http://www.vfs-usa.co.in