United News of Bangladesh

Thirteen countries including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK) have jointly urged all applicants in Bangladesh to follow official procedures when seeking visas, permits, or other consular services The countries urged the Bangladeshi applicants not to use any false documents. "Do not use falsified documents, unreliable or unlicensed agents, or make payments to unauthorised individuals, agents, or missions," according to a joint message shared by the British High Commission in Dhaka. Such action can lead to delays, financial loss, refusal at borders, and/or serious legal consequences, it said. "No mission is affiliated with any agents," said the message. Applicants in Bangladesh are 'strongly advised' not to rely on intermediaries claiming special access or influence over visa decisions. "Always rely on verified information and official channels provided by legitimate authorities," the message reads. The countries, through its diplomatic missions stationed in Dhaka, said their shared priority is to ensure a safe, fair, and transparent application process for everyone. Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Spain, France, and Denmark are among the thirteen countries.    

In coordination with the U.S. Embassy, Bangladesh police have arrested six individuals who were selling fraudulent entry and exit stamps to U.S. visa applicants.   U.S. visa applicants are responsible for the information they provide on visa application forms and for any documents they provide at the interview.  The best guidance for prospective visa applicants is to review information on the U.S. Embassy website, be prepared for their interview with any supporting documentation, and provide factual and truthful answers during the visa process and interviews, said the US Embassy in Dhaka in a media statement on Friday.   Read more: US Embassy to host university fairs in Dhaka, Chattogram It is not necessary to use a visa broker to apply for a U.S. visa, Embassy Spokesperson Jeff Ridenour said. U.S. visa applicants are encouraged to complete their own applications online, as all the information needed to make an application can be found on our website.  "We also caution prospective applicants that presenting false information and documents may not only result in a visa denial but may also result in an ineligibility that prevents future travel to the United States," reads the statement.