The Central Bureau of Investigation is investigating an Indian national employed at the French Embassy in New Delhi for visa fraud. The accused allegedly charged visa applicants up to ₹45 lakh each in return for promising guaranteed Schengen visas. The CBI uncovered a well-planned scam involving multiple agents and embassy insiders targeting vulnerable visa seekers across India. To trace the suspects, including those abroad, the CBI issued Interpol’s first-ever Silver Notice from India.
An Embassy Official Orchestrated Schengen Visa Fraud
According to the CBI’s findings, the accused individual was employed in the visa division of the French Embassy in India. He collaborated with private agents and accomplices based in Ludhiana, Punjab. Together, they exploited aspiring travellers—primarily young and unemployed individuals—by collecting ₹25–45 lakh per person for facilitating Schengen visas. The investigators have so far identified at least 41 victims who paid large sums in hopes of securing European travel documents.
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The scam operated outside legal visa procedures. The suspects targeted individuals who lacked legitimate travel histories, convincing them that high payments could bypass standard scrutiny. The accused reportedly provided fabricated or manipulated documentation to make the applications appear genuine, thereby compromising the integrity of the visa process.
CBI Issues First-Ever Interpol Silver Notice
The CBI has filed a chargesheet against eight people, including the embassy official, his family members, and other intermediaries. As part of its ongoing investigation, the agency has sought the assistance of Interpol and successfully obtained a “Silver Notice”. This special notice helps trace suspects and their assets beyond Indian borders. The CBI believes some of the accused may have fled abroad, making international coordination crucial.
As reported by The Economic Times, Interpol has issued its first-ever Silver Notice in India for this case. The CBI also requested Interpol to trace properties and scam proceeds possibly invested in other countries.
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Visa Fraud Exposes Serious Vulnerabilities
This Schengen visa fraud has raised serious concerns about internal monitoring at diplomatic offices. The case exposes how insiders exploit vulnerabilities and underscores the urgent need for tighter control and oversight in visa processing departments. The CBI continues to investigate the extent of the fraud, with the possibility of more victims and accomplices emerging as the case unfolds.
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