Fake overseas job agents are one of the biggest reasons workers lose money, visas, and even their freedom. Pakistan and India are major targets because of high demand for Gulf jobs.
Knowing the warning signs can save your career and savings.
1. No Government License = Immediate Red Flag
A legal overseas agent must be registered with:
- Pakistan: BEOE / Protector of Emigrants
- India: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
If the agent cannot show:
- Valid license number
- Office registration proof
👉 Walk away immediately.
2. Demand for Advance Payment Is Illegal
Common scam tactics include:
- “Visa processing fee”
- “Medical fast-track charges”
- “Offer letter confirmation fee”
⚠️ Legit employers do not take recruitment money directly.
3. Fake Offer Letters Are Very Common
Check carefully:
- Company email domain (not Gmail/Yahoo)
- Company address on Google Maps
- Signature and stamp authenticity
- Salary too high for role = danger sign
Always cross-check with official company website.
4. Never Trust WhatsApp-Only Agents
Scammers avoid:
- Physical offices
- Official emails
- Video calls
A real agent:
- Has office landline
- Issues receipts
- Provides written contracts
WhatsApp-only dealings = high risk.
5. Verify Job Through Labor Approval
Before travel, confirm:
- Job is approved by labor department
- Visa type matches job role
- Employer exists in labor system
Many victims discover fake jobs only after arrival.
6. Embassy & Protector Office Verification
Always:
- Get contract stamped
- Register with Protector office
- Attend briefing session
Skipping this step removes legal protection abroad.
7. Social Media Job Ads Are Not Proof
Facebook & TikTok job ads are not verification.
Scammers use:
- Copied logos
- Fake testimonials
- Urgency pressure
Never rush because “limited slots”.
8. Safe Ways To Apply Overseas
Best safe options:
- Direct company websites
- Official airline career pages
- Embassy-listed recruiters
- Government-approved portals
Middlemen increase risk, not chances.
Final Advice
If a job feels rushed, secretive, or too good to be true — it is.
Legal jobs survive verification. Fake ones collapse under questions.
