BI alerts foreigners vs company offering fake immigration service

Officials of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) cautioned foreigners against a circulating document from a Philippine-based company allegedly charging money to its employees for payment to government agencies.

According to BI Commissioner Jaime Morente, he was was able to obtain a copy of said document which shows a breakdown of fees in exchange for immigration airport assistance.

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“This company is allegedly charging P5,000 as Airport Assistance Fee, another P5,000 for processing fee, and P20,000 for a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Invitation Letter,” Morente shared. “It seems that this company is using the name of government agencies to be able to charge such high rates to its employees,” he added.

Morente, then reiterated that they do not collect any ‘immigration assistance’ fee from foreign nationals.

He expressed his dismay towards those that pretend to provide immigration assistance. “ It is disheartening to see reports of syndicates who are taking advantage of other people by using the name of government offices,” he said.

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The BI has earlier released several advisories warning the public about individuals offering assistance who pretend to be employees of the BI.

BI alerts foreigners vs company offering fake immigration service

Morente reminded the public to remain vigilant of such fraudulent acivities. “Be wary of falling prey to these scammers. Immediately report to the authorities if you encounter such modus,” said Morente.

Morente added that they are now studying possible legal actions against said company.

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BI also warned foreigners against fixers offering assistance on student visa processing.

BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said that the announcement followed after receiving reports of four cases of visa tampering in June.

According to Morente, one case involved an Indian national who initially went to the BI’s Student Visa Section (SVS) in Quezon City to claim his Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR i-Card).

BI SVS Chief Anthony Cabrera reported that after assessment, officers found that the foreigner has no application on record, discovered that his visa has been long expired, and that his passport has been marked with counterfeit visa extension stamps.

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