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🇯🇵 Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee

HighEmployment FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read6 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?

In Japan, a concerning trend has emerged where fraudsters target job seekers, particularly skilled workers, care workers, and those in the hospitality sector. These scammers send out enticing job offers that often appear legitimate. After luring candidates with attractive positions, they request payment for various fees, including work permits, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation, courier services, or document processing. This scam exploits the hopes of individuals seeking employment in Japan, often causing significant financial loss and emotional distress.

How Can I Identify This Scam?

Victims may receive emails or messages from supposed employers who have not conducted interviews or skill assessments. The communication may seem professional, but it often lacks essential verification. The scammers aim to create urgency, pressuring applicants to pay fees quickly under the pretense of securing their employment. It is important for job seekers to remain vigilant and informed about these fraudulent practices.

What Should I Do If I Encounter This Scam?

If you believe you are a target of this scam, it is vital to report the incident to local authorities. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan provides resources for verifying employers and job offers. Engaging with reputable recruitment agencies can also help protect against these fraudulent schemes.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without interview or skills screening
Salary is much higher than market level
Employer asks the worker to pay immigration or recruitment fees upfront
Company website, address, or registration cannot be verified

How to protect yourself

To avoid falling victim to this scam, always verify the employer through official company registries and contact details in Japan. Refrain from paying recruitment or permit fees to personal accounts. Ensure that the employer is legally registered and that the job offer is legitimate. consult reliable sources such as the Immigration Services Agency of Japan for guidance on job offers and work permits. It is also advisable to seek out job listings through reputable job search platforms.

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.
Japan 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.