The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has expressed serious concerns about the rising number of Ghanaians submitting forged or falsified documents for visa application purposes. According to the Ministry, this trend is not only alarming but also a criminal offense, punishable under sections 158, 159, 166, and 169 of the Criminal and Offenses Acts, 1961 (Act 29).
In an official statement, the Ministry issued a strong warning, stating that applicants caught presenting false documents will be handed over to the police for prosecution. The Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, noting that visa fraud undermines the integrity of Ghana’s international reputation.
“The submission of forged documents for visa authentication is a serious offense,” the Ministry warned, urging the public to comply with this directive to avoid legal consequences. This caution comes at a time when international embassies and consulates are tightening their application processes, making it even more critical for Ghanaians to ensure that their documents are genuine and properly verified.
The Ministry reiterated that individuals found guilty of such offenses could face severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or both. The Ministry further warned that fraudulent visa applications not only delay processing but also damage the prospects of other Ghanaians seeking legitimate travel opportunities.
Additionally, the Ministry urged all prospective applicants to engage only with legitimate, certified agents or directly with embassies to avoid falling prey to fraudsters or unintentionally engaging in illegal activities. “It is the responsibility of every applicant to ensure that their documents are accurate and authentic. Failure to comply with this may result in irreversible consequences,” the statement added.
In light of this, the Ministry has reiterated its commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies to track and prosecute individuals involved in document forgery, reminding the public that visa applications should be transparent and in strict compliance with the law.
