Latest Embassy News
Press Release
Diversity Visas, Student Visas and Fraud
June 12, 2009
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé wishes to share information regarding two appointment scams that have recently surfaced. A significant number of applicants are impacted and are relying on incorrect information to obtain an appointment. This results in a reduction in appointments for legitimate applicants as well as the loss of time and money to applicants being taken advantage of.
The 2010 Diversity Visa application process has now concluded. The Kentucky Consular Center has begun mailing notifications to those applicants selected for participation in the 2010 program. Notifications will be delivered by physical post only. Applicants will not be notified by email. The only time payment is required is at the time of interview and only at the U.S. Embassy. No other payments are required of Diversity Visa winners.
Applicants are cautioned that some applicants paying cybercafés and unscrupulous individuals, who claim to offer assistance in obtaining visas, are at high risk for fraud. Cafes are known to ransom Diversity Visa notification letters, demanding extra money or other arrangements in exchange for their delivery. These other arrangements can include fake spouses, children, or other requirements involving criminal wrongdoing. Other individuals are known to insist on adding fake spouses or on requiring a connection to a U.S.-based contact to facilitate criminal or other acts before releasing information related to a valid visa application. Students are often the victims of such actions.
Applicants are hereby notified that agreeing to these arrangements can result in disqualification from the Diversity Visa program, and in some cases, will also result in a permanent ban from entering the United States. Cameroonian law enforcement authorities are also notified whenever local laws may have been violated, and have imposed substantial penalties in such cases.
U.S. Embassy Yaoundé strongly cautions applicants against seeking advice from unauthorized organizations or individuals. U.S. Embassy Yaoundé wishes to remind the public that these cafes are not acting on behalf of the Embassy, the Diversity Visa program, or anyone affiliated with any U.S. immigration office. Any interaction with these cafes or persons is at the applicant’s own risk. Applicants are ultimately responsible for their own entry and application. It is each individual applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all personal data on the entry and application form, including photos, is correct and only submitted or entered in their presence and with each applicant’s express permission. If you believe your own selection letter is being held, or if you believe someone has used your personal data without your permission, please contact the Embassy immediately.
The most reliable, accurate information regarding visas and the application process can be found at our website at http://yaounde.usembassy.gov/visas.html in English or http://french.yaounde.usembassy.gov/visas.html in French, where you will also find other links to assist in informing yourself about the visa process. You may also call our public inquiry number at 2220-1603 or email us at consularyaounde@state.gov for further information.
If you are the winner of the 2009 Diversity Visa lottery, please be reminded that you need to schedule your appointment as soon as possible. All visas must be issued by September 30, 2009. If you have not been interviewed and found qualified before this date, you will not receive the visa.
The U.S. remains committed to supporting all legitimate travelers and students to the U.S. and to treating all visa applicants promptly and courteously.
Note: Due to credit card fraud, Cameroon and several other countries were recently blocked from using online payment systems for student registrations. Student visa applicants cannot apply until their payment has been received by the Department of Homeland Security. Please plan ahead to allow sufficient processing time of your money order or check payable to a U.S. bank. Further information is available at http://www.ice.gov/sevis/
Note: Cameroonians planning a visit or studies in the U.S. are reminded to plan as far in advance as possible and to book appointments as soon as possible. Heavy demand during the summer means longer wait times. Prior visa holders are encouraged to take advantage of the option to renew without appointment. Further details on the renewal program and the application process are available at http://yaounde.usembassy.gov/visas.html