Five Bangladeshi nationals have been charged in Canada over alleged visa fraud after an investigation by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) uncovered suspected forged documents in 243 temporary visa applications submitted on behalf of 209 Bangladeshi citizens.

According to information released on Thursday local time, four of the accused appeared before the Valleyfield Court in Quebec. They are Russell Mirza, Mohammad Aminul Islam, Md. Mudassir Alam Bhuiyan and Kazi Nafiz Alam. The fifth accused, Md. Rakibul Hasan, is reportedly in Bangladesh, and an arrest warrant has been issued against him.

The CBSA investigation began after a supervisory inspection at a residence in the Mercier area of Quebec on July 3, 2024, revealed potential violations of immigration laws. A formal investigation was launched in August that year.

On June 3, 2025, investigators searched four locations across Quebec and Ontario. Following an examination of documents, computers and other equipment recovered during the searches, charges were brought against the five individuals.

As part of the investigation, authorities examined 79 of the 243 visa applications in particular detail.

The charges include allegedly conspiring to facilitate the entry of other individuals into Canada, assisting in the submission of false information or the concealment of material facts in visa applications, and helping others violate Canadian immigration laws.

The allegations have not been proven in court, and judicial proceedings are ongoing.

Immigration experts warn that submitting forged documents or false information in a Canadian visa application can lead to refusal and potentially a ban on entering Canada for at least five years. Applicants may also face further legal complications.

They advise applicants to verify the accuracy of all information and supporting documents before submitting an application. Those using representatives or immigration consultants should remain aware of the information submitted in their names and avoid blindly trusting anyone who guarantees visa approval.

Although 243 applications involving 209 Bangladeshi citizens came under investigation, this does not mean that every applicant concerned was involved in fraud. Similarly, the five accused cannot be considered guilty unless the charges are proven in court.