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🇧🇳 Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee

MediumArrival FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read7 reported cases
Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial reporting channel ↗

How this scam works

In Brunei, there is a rising concern about scams related to fake border, airport, or fast-track assistance fees. Scammers are posing as airport staff, immigration officials, or travel agents, claiming that travelers must pay a special fee to enter the country. These deceitful practices often target tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students. The scammers typically assert that the payment is necessary to avoid questioning, to expedite processing, or to retrieve important documents. They may approach you directly at the airport or contact you through phone calls or messaging apps before your arrival.

What should I know about these scams?

You should be aware that these scams can occur at various entry points into Brunei, including airports. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to pay immediately to avoid complications. They may use persuasive tactics to make their claims seem legitimate, leveraging official-sounding language and uniforms to gain your trust. However, you should remember that legitimate fees will only be charged through official channels.

How can I protect myself from these scams?

Always use official fee schedules and authorized payment channels for any services related to entry into Brunei. If approached by someone claiming to be a border official or airport staff, verify their identity by speaking to uniformed personnel at official counters. Request a printed receipt for any lawful payment you make. Learn about the official processes in Brunei by visiting the Immigration Department's website, where you can find accurate information regarding entry fees and procedures.

Who can I contact if I encounter this scam?

If you suspect you have encountered a scam, you should report it to the Brunei Immigration Department or local law enforcement. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to proceed. be aware of common document types and payment methods used in Brunei, as this knowledge can help protect you from fraudulent claims.

Red flags

  • Payment requested by phone or chat before arrival
  • Claims that refusal to pay will lead to detention or complications
  • No official invoice or access to a government payment portal
  • Person cannot provide official identification or details of their office location
  • Pressure to pay immediately without the opportunity for verification

How to protect yourself

To avoid falling victim to these scams, always verify any payment requests by consulting official sources. Use only government-sanctioned payment methods and ensure that you obtain a receipt for any fees paid. If a situation feels suspicious, do not hesitate to seek assistance from official airport personnel or contact the Brunei Immigration Department directly for confirmation. Education about local regulations and procedures can also be beneficial in preventing scams.

What to do if targeted

  • - Stop communication and do not send more money or documents
  • - Save messages, receipts, contracts, profile links, and phone numbers
  • - Contact your bank or payment provider if money was sent
  • - Report through official fraud, police, or immigration channels
Official reporting channel →

Prevention tips

  • - Only pay government fees through official portals
  • - Do not trust guaranteed visa approvals or secret appointment slots
  • - Verify employer, school, agent, or landlord identities independently
  • - Avoid personal-account transfers and pressure tactics

Emergency & Reporting Contacts

If there is immediate danger, contact local emergency services. If money was sent, contact your bank/payment provider and official fraud reporting channels.

Sources & References

Who is targeted

touristsfirst-time travellersworkersstudents

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Opens your assistant with a pre-filled prompt (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude). Gemini uses Google AI Mode.

Not affiliated with any AI platform. Always verify immigration rules on official government sites.

Scam safety FAQ

Legitimate government fees are paid through official channels with receipts. Never wire cash to personal accounts for a “guaranteed” outcome.

Collect evidence (messages, contracts), then report through your destination country’s fraud or immigration reporting channels and warn your community.

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