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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

What is the Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee scam?

In Cape Verde, a scam involving fake airport staff, immigration officers, or travel agents is becoming increasingly common. These scammers approach tourists, first-time travelers, workers, and students, claiming that a special fee is required to enter the country, avoid questioning, or expedite border processing. They may provide convincing stories about needing to pay for document releases or fast-track services, making their claims sound legitimate. This type of fraud can be particularly distressing for newcomers who may not be familiar with local customs or regulations.

How do scammers operate at the airport or border?

Scammers often target individuals upon arrival at the airport or border crossings. They might present themselves as official personnel and use uniforms or badges to appear credible. By creating a sense of urgency, they pressure victims into making immediate payments, often demanding cash or using untraceable payment methods.

What should I do if I encounter this scam?

If approached by someone demanding payment for special services, you should remain calm and verify their claims. Always seek assistance from officially recognized personnel. Understanding your rights and the proper procedures can help protect you from falling victim to these scams.

Red flags

Payment requested by phone or chat before arrival
Claims that refusal to pay will cause detention
No official invoice or government payment portal
Person cannot show official identification or office location
Request for payment in cash only or through untraceable methods

How to protect yourself

To avoid falling victim to the Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee scam in Cape Verde, always use official fee schedules and payment channels. When at airports or borders, only engage with uniformed officers at official counters. Ask for printed receipts for any lawful fees you may be required to pay. Learn about the official processes for entering the country to better recognize any fraudulent claims. If in doubt, consult the official Cabo Verde government website for guidance.

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

MigrantIQ scam alert record
Published 2026-05-07.
Cape Verde official reporting channels
Use official reporting channels if you were targeted or lost money.

Who is targeted

touristsfirst-time travellersworkersstudents

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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.