US visa scandal: Russians report alleged fraud in Kazakhstan
Russians have reported alleged fraud in the process of obtaining US visas through a service center in Kazakhstan, TourDom reports. Clients were promised improved chances of approval for a fee of up to $2,000, but many applicants did not receive permission to travel to the United States.
Complaints about the visa service center
The initial report appeared in the SHOT Telegram channel, which noted that the scheme allegedly operated for more than three years and affected over 30 Russians, including well-known bloggers and public figures. At Visa Support, clients were promised assistance from “former consuls,” which was said to significantly increase the chances of success. It was also reported that US tourist and business visas could be processed within 10 days. In some cases, the cost reached 150,000 rubles (about $2,000).
After payment, applicants were sent invitations and other documents that were allegedly created using graphic editors and neural networks. One employee, according to the source, posed as a “former consul” and assured clients that the visa would be ready soon. The waiting process could last several months, after which applicants were informed of an alleged visa refusal. Refunds for the services were not provided. The estimated total damage is around 5 million rubles (about $68,400).
Reviews of Visa Support
After the reports appeared, users began discussing the situation on social media and in thematic communities. Negative reviews about Visa Support can be found in public forums. One user wrote that they hoped for an investigation after the story gained attention and admitted they had previously considered using the service.
Some commenters questioned the allegations. They noted that intermediary companies assist with document preparation and the application process but do not make decisions on visa issuance. Discussions also pointed out that service fees and support payments are generally non-refundable in case of visa refusal.
Concerns over US visa refusals
Subscribers of the “Krysha TurDoma” Telegram channel note that obtaining US visas has become significantly more difficult, with the process compared to a lottery. “Entry to Poland is not guaranteed even with a valid Schengen visa, and the US embassy in Kazakhstan has a refusal rate of over 60%,” they wrote.
On the Vinsky forum, some Russians reported that almost all applicants traveling to the US with children were denied visas in Astana. However, others shared different experiences: “Families with children were approved. A couple standing in front of me at the interview was rejected without explanation.”
One Russian citizen who applied in Astana in the summer said that only two applicants were granted visas, while all Russians were rejected: “Young, elderly, families, even people who had been to the US multiple times. It feels like Russians are simply not being allowed into America.”
There are also additional difficulties. Interview slots must be closely monitored. Information at the US embassy in Astana is typically updated on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 a.m. If lucky, applicants can book an interview only for dates a couple of months ahead. In addition, a foreign bank card is required to pay the consular fee.
What applicants should keep in mind when applying for a US visa
Analysts from International Investment note that US visa policy has changed several times in recent years. Russians can now submit applications only through diplomatic missions in third countries, including Astana and Warsaw.
It should be noted that intermediaries, including service centers, have no authority to issue or revoke entry visas. The decision is made exclusively by the US consulate.
Experts recommend carefully reviewing service terms and contracts before paying for assistance. Such services cannot guarantee visa approval, and claims of “increased chances” are subjective and have no legal force.