Rogue companies are helping migrants pose as talented artists and tech experts in bid to fraudulently enter UK under Government’s ‘brightest and best’ visa scheme, investigation finds

An undercover investigation found that immigration consultants offered to help applicants fabricate evidence for the UK’s Global Talent visa, which is intended to attract leading or promising people in fields such as science, research, the arts and technology. The findings raise concerns about checks on a route that can lead to permanent residency and allow successful applicants to bring family members.

One consultant, claiming to work for London-based iCareer Consultancy UK, offered artwork, exhibitions, media coverage and recommendation letters as part of a package costing more than £100,000. The Home Office is revoking visas granted to two Nigerian men it believes used deception, after apparently fake reviews of their art came to light. A woman from India also told the investigation that a company created false evidence for her technology application, which was rejected. The Home Office said the findings were extremely serious, that the firm offering the package was under investigation, and that the visa route was under review.