Many left in debt after alleged Canada visa, World Cup scam in central Vietnam

Authorities in Quang Tri Province are investigating complaints from multiple residents who say they were deceived into paying large sums of money for labor and tourism packages advertised by ATH global visa services Co. Ltd.

According to the complainants, the company promoted programs claiming to offer guaranteed visa approval, simplified procedures, and even advertised opportunities to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada.

Believing the promises, many people reportedly borrowed heavily from banks or mortgaged property before transferring hundreds of millions of dong, and in some cases more than VND1 billion, to the company. [VND1 million = US$38]

Victims said the operation appeared professional and convincing.

The company rented office space, signed contracts, issued receipts, arranged trips to Hanoi for interviews and fingerprint collection, and sent photos of visas and passports through Zalo to reassure customers that their applications had been approved.

Although some payments were requested through personal bank accounts rather than corporate accounts, many clients said they did not suspect fraud because they trusted the “100 percent visa approval” promise.

Instead of departing for Canada, however, many later received what they suspect were fake visa and passport images before losing contact with the people who had collected their money.

Reporters found that residents have repeatedly gathered outside the company’s office at 1 Phan Boi Chau Street in recent days demanding refunds, only to find the premises closed.

The landlord said the lease had expired and company representatives abruptly left without paying outstanding rent.

Legal experts said the alleged scheme appeared carefully designed to create the impression that applications were being processed legally, allowing the suspects to prolong the process and continue collecting money from victims.

Authorities have urged the public to verify the operating licenses of service agencies, remain cautious of advertisements promising guaranteed visas or expedited immigration, and avoid transferring money to personal bank accounts to reduce the risk of fraud.