The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu has issued a stern warning that submitting false information or fake documents during the visa application process could lead to a lifetime ban on entering the United States, along with the risk of criminal charges. The embassy emphasized that consular officers are well-versed in the latest trends and technologies related to fraud and document forgery, prompting this cautionary statement amid a growing number of such incidents.
In an official statement, the embassy declared, “Consular officers stay up-to-date on the latest scams and fraudulent documentation technology. If you misrepresent facts or provide fake documents, you’re putting yourself at risk of a permanent lifetime ban from entering the United States as well as criminal prosecution.”
This warning comes in response to a rising trend in Nepal, where applicants for non-immigrant and immigrant visas have been found submitting inaccurate details—either knowingly or unknowingly—or intentionally presenting counterfeit documents. The embassy has also intensified its rejection of applications containing fraudulent information or fake paperwork.
The issue is particularly notable among Diversity Visa (DV) applicants, where submitting fake educational certificates is not uncommon. Those caught using forged academic credentials not only have their DV applications denied but also face a lifetime ban from entering the U.S. In some cases, the embassy has handed over such offenders to local authorities for further action.
Additionally, discrepancies in personal details, such as marital status, provided during the DV lottery entry or subsequent visa applications have caused problems for applicants. Some individuals who misrepresented information have faced issues even after arriving in the U.S., including rejection of citizenship applications and potential deportation proceedings after obtaining a green card.
The embassy has also observed an increase in fraudulent documentation related to employment-based green cards, a category popular among Nepali applicants. With a significant number of Nepalis securing employment-based green cards, incidents of submitting fake documents to facilitate approvals have prompted stricter scrutiny from the embassy. These cases highlight a broader pattern of deceit that jeopardizes applicants’ chances of legally entering or remaining in the United States.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
