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Types of Visa Fraud Prosecuted Federally

Federal authorities aggressively pursue cases involving fraudulent visa applications and misuse of lawfully issued visas. Common violations include providing false information on visa applications, using fake supporting documents to obtain visas, overstaying visa validity periods while working illegally, and selling visa sponsorship through fraudulent businesses. Each type of visa fraud carries serious criminal penalties similar to passport fraud offenses.

Marriage Fraud and Sham Relationships

Immigration officials investigate marriages between U.S. citizens and foreign nationals to detect relationships entered solely for immigration benefits. Prosecutors charge both parties when evidence reveals financial arrangements, lack of cohabitation, or admissions that marriages were never genuine. These cases often involve elaborate documentation showing separate residences, minimal contact between spouses, and witness testimony contradicting claims of authentic relationships.

Employment-Based Visa Fraud

Employers who sponsor foreign workers sometimes create fraudulent job positions or misrepresent employee qualifications to obtain work visas. Workers who provide false credentials, fabricated degrees, or invented work experience also face prosecution. Immigration authorities cross-reference employment records with business operations to verify legitimate need for sponsored workers. The fake immigration document charges frequently include employment fraud when defendants misrepresent their professional backgrounds or work for employers operating visa scams.

Student Visa Violations and Fake Schools

Federal agencies shut down fraudulent educational institutions that issue enrollment documents allowing foreign nationals to obtain student visas without attending actual classes. Students who knowingly enroll in these fake schools to maintain immigration status face fraud charges and deportation. Legitimate students must maintain full-time enrollment and report address changes to avoid visa violations triggering removal proceedings.

Document Mills and Fraudulent Supporting Papers

Criminal organizations operating document mills produce fake bank statements, employment letters, tax returns, and other supporting materials used in visa applications. Applicants who purchase and submit these fraudulent documents commit crimes even when visas are ultimately denied. Investigators trace document origins through paper analysis, digital forensics, and financial records linking applicants to document sellers.

Obtaining Experienced Immigration Defense Counsel

Visa fraud cases involve complex immigration law intersecting with federal criminal statutes. Defense requires attorneys knowledgeable about both systems who can navigate parallel criminal and immigration proceedings. The Law Offices of William Kroger represents Los Angeles County residents charged with visa fraud and related immigration offenses. Call 323-655-5700 today for comprehensive legal representation.