How To Protect New Immigrants From Scams
Help people who have recently moved to a new country avoid scams that specifically target those unfamiliar with local systems.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Scammers actively target people who are new to a country because they may be unfamiliar with official agencies, local scam tactics, or their own legal rights. Common attacks include fake immigration officials demanding fees, bogus job offers, housing fraud, and money-transfer traps. Being new somewhere is not a vulnerability — the systems are deliberately confusing, and scammers exploit that confusion. Understanding the most common traps and knowing where to go for genuine help makes a real difference.
Immigration and visa scams
Fraudsters pose as border officials, lawyers, or government representatives and demand fees for visas, permits, or 'fines'. Genuine government agencies do not call out of the blue demanding immediate payment.
- Genuine immigration officials will not demand fees by phone or wire transfer
- Use only official government websites for visa and permit information
- Ask a trusted community organisation to verify any official-looking letter
- Be wary of 'immigration lawyers' who approach you unsolicited
Job and housing scams
Newly arrived people looking for work or housing may encounter fake job listings that harvest documents and fees, or rental scams asking for deposits on properties that don't exist or aren't available.
- Never pay a recruitment fee upfront — legitimate employers don't charge candidates
- Never hand over original identity documents to a potential employer
- View accommodation before paying any deposit where possible
- Use employer review sites and community recommendations to check companies
Money transfer and banking scams
Scams targeting overseas money transfers are common, as are fake bank calls and 'account verification' requests. Use regulated services and be cautious of anyone who approached you first.
- Use regulated, well-known money transfer services
- Banks will never call and ask for your full PIN or password
- If in doubt, hang up and call the bank's official number directly
Finding trustworthy help
Community organisations, Citizens Advice, and settled-community networks are often the best first stop for checking whether something is legitimate.
- Connect with local community organisations for your background
- Citizens Advice and equivalent services offer free, confidential guidance
- Your local council can confirm which services are genuine
Frequently asked questions
I gave my passport to a landlord and now they won't return it — what do I do?
Withholding a person's identity documents can be a criminal offence. Contact your local police and your country's consulate or embassy for urgent assistance. Citizens Advice and local migrant support charities can also advise.
How do I check if an immigration adviser is legitimate?
In the UK, immigration advisers must be registered with the OISC. Check the official register online before paying anyone for immigration help. Your community organisation or Citizens Advice can help you search.
Is it safe to send money home through informal channels?
Informal transfer channels carry higher risks of fraud and provide no recourse if something goes wrong. Regulated transfer services are safer and are often competitive on fees.