The United States Embassy in Manila has issued a strong warning to visa applicants, emphasizing that submitting falsified records or lying to officials carries severe consequences, including arrests, criminal prosecution, and permanent bans from entering the US.
In an advisory posted Saturday, August 29, the embassy revealed that an applicant was recently arrested after Philippine law enforcement officers were alerted to falsified paperwork presented during a visa application.
The embassy noted that its consular section regularly coordinates with local authorities whenever fraudulent local records are uncovered.
Official guidance warns that deceptive practices, such as providing altered credentials or giving false testimony to consular officers, will not go undetected.
“Using fake documents or misrepresenting facts can result in a lifetime ban from entering the United States as well as criminal prosecution and arrest,” the embassy stated in a video message.
“Walang sikreto. No secrets, no exceptions, no tolerance for fraud,” the embassy added.
Members of the public who wish to report suspected visa fraud are urged to contact the embassy at FPMManila@state.gov.