Visa or job placement scam
Quick answer
A scammer offers overseas jobs or visa sponsorship in exchange for fees, with no real placement.
- Verify the employer and any agent through official government and company channels.
What it is
A scammer offers overseas jobs or visa sponsorship in exchange for fees, with no real placement.
How it works
You are promised work abroad and asked to pay for visas, permits, or processing, often in stages, before the offer disappears.
Red flags to watch for
- Guaranteed visa or placement for a fee
- Payments to personal accounts
- No verifiable employer
Example
An agent promises a guaranteed overseas job and visa for a series of upfront fees. This is risky because genuine recruiters do not guarantee visas for cash.
What not to do
- Do not pay placement or visa fees to individuals
- Do not send documents to unverified agents
The safe next step
Verify the employer and any agent through official government and company channels.
Often seen on: Social media, WhatsApp, Email.
Commonly targets: Migrant workers, Job seekers abroad.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your national fraud authority and relevant labour or immigration body.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a visa or job placement scam?
A scammer offers overseas jobs or visa sponsorship in exchange for fees, with no real placement.
How can I avoid a visa or job placement scam?
Verify the employer and any agent through official government and company channels.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.