Migrants offered help to fake artworks to gain UK ‘talent’ visas – BBC investigation finds

A BBC investigation found companies offering migrants fake evidence to qualify for the UK’s Global Talent visa, including artwork, exhibitions and fabricated awards. The scheme is intended to attract leading talent, and successful applicants can bring family members and potentially secure permanent residency within three or five years.

A London consultant quoted more than £100,000 for a package that he said included art produced in China, media coverage and recommendation letters, and claimed clients had not been refused. The Home Office is revoking visas granted to two Nigerian men over suspected deception and says the company behind the offer is under investigation. An Indian applicant also said a firm fabricated evidence for her technology-route application, which was rejected; iCareer Consultancy denied selling visa services.