‘Verify before you travel’ — Foreign Affairs Ministry cautions public over rising visa fraud
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has cautioned the public, particularly young people, to be wary of visa Ponzi schemes that lure victims with promises of travel and employment opportunities abroad.
In a statement issued on Friday, March 13, 2026, the ministry said it had observed a worrying increase in fraudulent activities linked to individuals and networks associated with QNET and similar operations targeting unsuspecting Ghanaians.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana wishes to caution the public, particularly Ghanaian youth, against the activities of individuals and networks associated with QNET and similar schemes.
“The Ministry has observed with concern the increasing incidents of Ghanaian nationals who are being lured to travel outside the country under false pretences, including promises of employment opportunities, business prospects, and assistance in securing European visas,” it said.
Victims stranded abroad
The ministry said the deceptive schemes had left several victims stranded in foreign countries after travelling on false promises.
It explained that some victims had been detained by immigration authorities, while others had been exposed to distressing and exploitative situations after arriving abroad.
“These deceptive schemes have resulted in several victims being stranded, detained by foreign immigration authorities, or subjected to distressing and exploitative conditions abroad,” the statement said.
Call for vigilance
The ministry advised the public to exercise caution and verify all travel, recruitment and business offers through official channels before committing funds or making travel arrangements.
It further urged parents, guardians and community leaders to support efforts to educate young people and the wider public about the risks associated with such schemes.
Report suspicious activities
The ministry also encouraged members of the public to report suspected visa scams and related fraudulent activities to the appropriate authorities.
“Suspicious activities should be reported promptly to the Ministry via the following contacts:
/ +233204552750 or the relevant security and immigration authorities,” it stated.
Government’s commitment
The ministry assured the public that it was working with relevant state institutions to tackle the activities of criminal networks involved in the schemes.
“The Ministry remains committed to working with relevant national institutions to protect the welfare of Ghanaian citizens and to curb the activities of criminal networks who prey on unsuspecting individuals,” it added.
