Is a job offer in Dubai or abroad that requires me to pay visa and travel fees upfront a scam?
Yes. Legitimate foreign employers bear the cost of visas and relocation. Requiring advance payment from a candidate is a strong scam indicator.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Overseas job scams are particularly prevalent for positions claiming to be in Gulf states, Europe, or Australia, targeting workers from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The scammer posts a compelling job listing — often for hospitality, construction, nursing, or domestic work — with an attractive salary. Once the applicant expresses interest, they are asked to pay for visa processing, medical examinations, uniform fees, or flights. After payment, the job does not exist, the recruiter disappears, or the worker arrives in a country with very different conditions than promised. Legitimate employers and licensed recruitment agencies bear the cost of legitimate work visas and do not require candidates to pay upfront fees to secure employment.
Common red flags
- You are asked to pay any fee before starting work or travelling
- Recruitment is done entirely online without any verification of the company
- Visa or work permit appears to be arranged by a third party rather than the employer
- Employment contract is in a language you do not read
- Salary is unusually high for the role described
What to do now
- Never pay upfront fees to secure a foreign job
- Verify any foreign employer through its country's business registration authority
- Contact the embassy of the destination country about legitimate visa pathways
- Report suspected scam recruitment to your national labour authority
Frequently asked questions
Are licensed overseas recruitment agencies allowed to charge fees?
In some countries, licensed agencies may charge processing fees, but these are regulated and limited. Unregulated agencies charging high upfront fees are a serious risk. Always check an agency's licence with the relevant labour authority.