How to Check If a Canada Visa is Original or Fake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Afreen Abbasi

Updated on

Dec 27,2024

How to Check If a Canada Visa is Original or Fake: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Key Highlights

Canada is well-liked. Tourists and immigrants come from all over the world. This can be seen in its scenic beauty, culture, and economy. Regardless, Canadian visas are processed down to the bone. Canadian visas are an issue for tourists and those who want to study or immigrate here. No matter who you are, it is highly recommended that you legitimize your visa. 

In this blog, we'll check if a Canada visa is original or fake. They will verify the Canadian visa. This will save you from scams and immigration fraud.

What is a Fake Canadian Visa?

A fake Canadian visa is a counterfeit document that fraudsters create to mimic the appearance of a genuine visa. These fake visas can take various forms, including:

  • Altered Genuine Visas: These are real visas that have been tampered with, such as changing the dates or personal information.
  • Completely Fake Visas: These are entirely fabricated documents that imitate the design and features of a real visa.
  • Stolen Blank Visas: Fraudsters may steal blank visa forms and fill them out with false information.

How to Check if a Canada Visa is Original or Fake?

While conducting the verification process, it is first important to acknowledge what kind of risks fake visas can bring about. Faking a visa can cause great trouble. It can lead to serious consequences, like being denied entry to Canada, deported or charged in court. Furthermore, becoming a victim of fraud can result in all possible financial and image losses. As a result, you should always take a moment to check your Canada visa. Then, take the needed steps before planning your trip.

1. Checking the Watermark

An authentic Canadian visa incorporates well-known security characteristics, such as a watermark. The watermark test can be carried out by shining a light in front of the visa and observing the upright position of the doc. If a person has a genuine visa, the Canadian flag or coat of arms will be watermarked. This logo must be the first thing that catches the eye of the user without having unique or premium quality tools, gadgets or appliances. If the watermark you see on the visa does not match the original image, or the image is completely different, it may be a fake passport. Checking the watermark is an essential way of knowing how to check if a Canada visa is original or fake.

2. Inspecting the Security Features

Canadian visas have a watermark. They also have other security features. These features stop counterfeiting. These may imply virtual or real pictures, such as micro-printing and Ultraviolet UV printing. To check out cunning and tricked-up features, use a magnifying glass or UV light to scrutinize it thoroughly. Apart from this, Canadian visas are meticulously designed. They contain many complex patterns and details that hinder copying. Please beware that if you see signs of imitation or inconsistencies in security features, the visa might be fraudulent.

3. Verifying the Visa Number

One of the most important steps in how to check how to check if a Canada visa is original or fake is the visa number. A Canadian visa is assigned a special number that is imprinted on the document, just like an ID card. Look up the official Canadian government databases to check whether the visa number is genuine. To show this, go to the main Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Use their visa check feature. Naturally, just like a driver’s license number, confirming the visa number given depends on the system verifying it right there. Sometimes, if the visa number is not recognized or does not match the information, IRCC only reads fake visas.

4. Examining the Personal Information

Matching Canadian visas true to the personal facts of the visa holder depicted in timely and precise images is the main goal. This incorporates an individual's surname, date of birth, identifier, and passport photograph. Take your time when reading this. Make sure it accurately reflects the details in your passport. Ideally, you should check all the details, as even a minor typing mistake or error could mean that the visa has been falsified. If you worry about the email's authenticity, find the contact details of the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. They will help you.

Read More: Canada Visitor Visa To Work Permit: Convert Your Visa in 2024

5. Consulting With Official Authorities

If you can't convince yourself with the information you have, do checks. If you can't, use a special government service. Address the closest Embassy of Canada and contact them to make an in-person appointment to have your visa rechecked. Keep any documents and witness statements that could further enhance your claim. Staff in either the embassy or the consulate office will be able to verify the validity of your visa and offer you helpful information next.

Read More: Know the Reasons for Canada Visa Rejection in 2024

Characteristics of Fake Canada Visas

Here are some of the characteristics of a fake Canadian visa:

  • Poor Print Quality: The text and images may be blurry or pixelated.
  • Incorrect Fonts: The font style and size may not match those used in genuine visas.
  • Missing Security Features: Genuine visas have several security features like watermarks, holograms, and micro printing, which are often missing or poorly replicated in fake visas.
  • Inconsistent Information: Personal information on the visa may not match the holder's passport details.

Consequences of Using a Fake Visa

Using a fake visa can have severe legal and personal repercussions, including:

  • Legal Consequences:
    • Detention and Deportation: If caught with a fake visa, you may be detained by Canadian border officials and deported back to your home country.
    • Fines and Penalties: You may face significant fines, which can amount to $5,000 CAD or more, and potential bans from entering Canada for up to five years.
    • Criminal Charges: Using a fake visa can lead to criminal charges, resulting in a permanent record of fraud with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Personal Consequences:
    • Confiscation of Belongings: Your belongings may be confiscated if you are found to be in Canada illegally.
    • Impact on Future Travel: A record of using a fake visa can affect your ability to travel to other countries, as many nations share immigration information.
    • Emotional and Financial Stress: The legal battles and fines can cause significant emotional and financial strain.

Consequences of Using a Fake Visa

How to Report a Suspected Fake Visa?

If you suspect that a visa is fake, you should take the following steps to report it:

  • Contact the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): Call the CBSA Border Watch Toll-Free Line at 1-888-502-9060 to report the suspected fraud.
  • Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: You can also report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, which handles various types of fraud, including immigration scams.
  • Notify Local Authorities: If you are outside Canada, contact your nearest Canadian visa office or local police to report the suspected fake visa.

Tips for Avoiding Fake Visa Scams

To protect yourself from falling victim to fake visa scams, consider the following tips:

  • Use Authorized Representatives: Only use immigration consultants or representatives who are authorized by the Canadian government. You can verify their credentials through the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).
  • Verify Information: Always cross-check the information provided on the visa with official sources, such as the IRCC website.
  • Be Cautious of Unsolicited Offers: Be wary of unsolicited offers for visas or job opportunities in Canada. Scammers often use these tactics to lure victims.
  • Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not share personal information or make payments to unverified individuals or websites.
  • Check for Common Red Flags: Look out for common red flags such as poor grammar, unrealistic promises, and requests for payment through unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

Tips for Avoiding Fake Visa Scams

How to Get an Original Canada Visa?

Here is the step-by-step guide to getting an original Canada Visa:

1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need:

  • Visitor Visa: This is for tourists and short-term visitors.
  • Student Visa: This visa is for individuals planning to study in Canada.
  • Work Visa: This is for those who have a job offer in Canada.
  • Permanent Resident Visa: For individuals intending to immigrate permanently.

2. Gather Required Documents:

  • Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Proof of Financial Support: Show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
  • Letter of Invitation: If applicable, obtain a letter from a family member or friend in Canada.

3. Complete the Application Form:

  • Fill out the appropriate visa application form accurately and completely.

4. Pay the Application Fee:

  • Pay the required visa application fee online or at the visa application centre.

5. Submit Your Application:

  • Submit your application and supporting documents online or at the nearest visa application centre.

6. Attend a Visa Interview (if required):

  • Some visa types may require an interview at the Canadian consulate or embassy.

7. Wait for Processing:

  • Visa processing times vary, so check the estimated processing time for your visa type.

8. Receive Your Visa:

  • Once approved, you will receive your visa, which will be affixed to your passport.

Read More: New Rules for Canada Immigration: Experts Latest Update

Conclusion

Generating an actual passport before starting your journey in Canada is vital for a safe and quick trip. Using what's in this guide will make you much less likely to get involved in visa fraud or scams. Remember always to ensure the watermark is there. Carefully inspect the security features to stop forgery. Check the visa number. Through this hope, we hope you get a deeper understanding of how to check how to check if a Canada visa is original or fake.

To ensure your Canada visa is not fake, TerraTern is here with its expert team to help you get a genuine Canada visa easily.

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Inayat Sharma

Content Marketing Specialist

Inayat is pursuing a double major in Media and Communication with English Hons in Bangalore. She has more than 4 years of experience as a writer in the Immigration industry. In her role, she developed content for various mediums, including websites, blogs, and social media posts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I verify if my Canadian visa is genuine?

To verify the authenticity of your Canadian visa, you should check for several key features. First, ensure that the font used on the visa is consistent and matches the fonts used on other genuine visas. Look for any errors in French words, as scammers often make mistakes in the French translations. Additionally, an original Canadian visa will always have a watermarked surname, where the watermark is beneath the printed surname. You can also verify the visa number on the official government website. If you have any doubts, contact the Canadian embassy or consulate for verification.

What are the common signs of a fake Canadian visa?

Common signs of a fake Canadian visa include poor print quality, inconsistent fonts, and errors in French translations. Fake visas often lack the necessary security features such as watermarks and holograms. Additionally, the layout of the visa under the title "Canada" may be incorrect, and the visa number may not be registered on the government website. If you notice any of these discrepancies, it is likely that the visa is fake.

What should I do if I suspect my visa is fake?

If you suspect that your visa is fake, you should immediately report it to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. They can help verify the authenticity of your visa. You should also report the fraud to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Additionally, notify your local authorities to ensure that the issue is documented and investigated.

What are the consequences of using a fake Canadian visa?

Using a fake Canadian visa can lead to severe consequences. You may be detained by Canadian border officials and deported back to your home country. Additionally, you could face significant fines, potentially up to $5,000 CAD, and be barred from entering Canada for up to five years. Using a fake visa can also result in criminal charges, leading to a permanent record of fraud with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Your belongings may be confiscated, and you may experience significant emotional and financial stress.

How can I avoid falling victim to fake visa scams?

To avoid falling victim to fake visa scams, use only authorized immigration representatives and verify their credentials through the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). Always cross-check information provided on the visa with official sources like the IRCC website. Be cautious of unsolicited offers for visas or job opportunities in Canada, and avoid sharing personal information with unverified sources. Look out for common red flags such as poor grammar, unrealistic promises, and requests for payment through unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

What are the steps to obtain an original Canadian visa?

To obtain an original Canadian visa, first determine the type of visa you need, such as a visitor visa, student visa, work visa, or permanent resident visa. Gather all required documents, including a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of financial support, and, if applicable, a letter of invitation. Complete the appropriate visa application form accurately and pay the application fee. Submit your application and supporting documents online or at the nearest visa application center. Attend a visa interview if required, and wait for the processing of your application. Once approved, you will receive your visa, which will be affixed to your passport.