Lying or making material misrepresentations on a U.S. visa application is a serious violation of U.S. immigration law and can also constitute a crime under U.S. federal law.
Applicable U.S. Laws
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Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) §212(a)(6)(C)(i)
Any alien who, by fraud or willfully misrepresenting a material fact, seeks to procure (or has procured) a visa, admission into the United States, or other immigration benefit is inadmissible.
Consequence:
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Lifetime ban from entering the United States (permanent inadmissibility).
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Possible waiver only in limited circumstances (e.g., family hardship cases).
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18 U.S.C. §1001 (False Statements)
Knowingly and willfully making a materially false statement to a U.S. government agency is a federal crime.
Penalty:
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Fine and/or up to 5 years in prison (or more if related to terrorism or national security).
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18 U.S.C. §1546 (Visa Fraud)
Fraud and misuse of visas or permits is a crime.
Penalty:
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Up to 10 years in prison (or 15+ years if connected to drug trafficking or terrorism).
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What counts as “material misrepresentation”?
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Lying about criminal history
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Hiding prior visa refusals or deportations
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Using fake documents
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Misstating employment or financial information
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Entering into a sham marriage for immigration benefits
Bottom line:
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It is a crime under federal law.
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It makes you permanently inadmissible to the U.S.
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It may lead to visa denial, deportation, and prison time if discovered.
