Fake Recruiter Scams in Mozambique
Fraudulent recruitment agencies in Mozambique charge upfront fees for overseas jobs that do not exist, leaving workers out of pocket and stranded.
Part of: Fake Recruiters
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
High youth unemployment and strong interest in working abroad make Mozambique a fertile ground for fake recruiter scams. Fraudsters set up convincing-looking agencies in Maputo, Nampula, and other cities, advertising positions in South Africa, the Middle East, or Europe via community notice boards, Facebook groups, and word of mouth.
Victims pay registration fees, medical-test fees, and visa-processing fees over several weeks. By the time the promised departure date passes with no ticket or work permit, the agency has vanished or refuses further contact.
How this scam works on Mozambique
Fake recruiters in Mozambique often operate from rented office space to appear legitimate. They provide printed contracts and official-looking letterheads, then request incremental payments — first a 'registration fee', then a 'medical clearance fee', then a 'visa stamp fee'. Each stage is designed to build trust before the next larger payment is requested.
Some scammers target workers already employed in the extractive industries (natural gas, mining), promising better-paid roles with foreign contractors. Victims are urged to keep the opportunity secret to avoid 'competition', isolating them from advice.
WhatsApp job groups are also used to spread fake job postings, with victims directed to pay fees via mobile money before any interview or verification occurs.
Common red flags
- Recruiter asks for money before any face-to-face interview or signed employment contract from the named employer
- Promised salary is significantly above the market rate for the role
- Office address cannot be verified in official business registries
- Urgency to pay within hours or lose the position
- Communication only via WhatsApp or personal email — no company domain
- Requests for copies of passport or ID before any official process is initiated
How to protect yourself
- Check that recruitment agencies are registered with the Instituto Nacional de Emprego e Formação Profissional (INEFP)
- Never pay recruitment fees — legitimate employers cover placement costs
- Verify the job offer directly with the named foreign employer before making any payment
- Seek advice from the Mozambique Embassy or consulate in the destination country
- Use INEFP's official job boards for overseas placements rather than informal social media groups
How to report it
- Report to INEFP (Instituto Nacional de Emprego e Formação Profissional) which regulates private employment agencies
- File a police report with the PRM, especially if documents were falsified
- Warn others via community radio and local Facebook groups to prevent further victims
Frequently asked questions
Are all private recruitment agencies in Mozambique fraudulent?
No — many legitimate agencies operate legally. Always verify registration with INEFP and never pay fees before receiving a verified job offer from the end employer.