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🇮🇩 Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee

HighEmployment FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read2 reported cases

Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial reporting channel ↗

How this scam works

What is the Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee Scam?

The Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee scam is a prevalent form of employment fraud in Indonesia. In this scheme, fraudsters send unsolicited job offers to potential candidates, often targeting job seekers, skilled workers, care workers, and those in the hospitality industry. These offers may appear enticing, promising high salaries and excellent working conditions. However, once the applicant shows interest, the scammer requests various upfront payments for work permits, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation, courier services, or document processing. These payments are often demanded before any formal employment contract is provided, leaving the victim with no job and financial loss.

How Can You Identify This Scam?

Many victims fall prey to this scam due to the seemingly legitimate nature of the job offers. However, you should be cautious and verify all details before proceeding. Scammers often use fake company names and addresses, making it challenging to differentiate from genuine offers.

What Should You Do if You Encounter This Scam?

If you receive a job offer that requires upfront payment for any fees, it is vital to take immediate action. Report the incident to local authorities and avoid sharing personal or financial information until you confirm the legitimacy of the offer.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without an interview or skills screening
Salary is significantly higher than the market rate for similar positions
Employer requests payment for immigration or recruitment fees upfront
Company website, address, or registration cannot be verified or is suspicious
Communication is conducted through unofficial channels, such as personal email accounts

How to protect yourself

To avoid falling victim to the Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee scam, always verify the employer through official company registries and contact details in Indonesia. You can consult the Indonesian Immigration website for guidance. Never pay recruitment or permit fees to personal bank accounts. Ensure that the employer is legally registered and has a physical presence in Indonesia before proceeding with any applications or payments.

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.
Indonesia official reporting channels
Use official reporting channels if you were targeted or lost money.

Who is targeted

job seekersskilled workerscare workershospitality workers

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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.