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🇱🇻 Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee

HighEmployment FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read5 reported cases

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

How this scam works

In Latvia, job seekers, especially skilled workers, care workers, and hospitality workers, need to be cautious of a prevalent scam involving fake job offers. Fraudsters typically send unsolicited job offers via email or social media, claiming to represent legitimate companies in Latvia. These offers often promise attractive salaries and benefits, enticing applicants to respond quickly. However, after the initial interest is shown, scammers will request various fees such as work permit costs, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation deposits, courier fees, or document processing charges. Note: legitimate employers do not require upfront payments for work permits or other related expenses before an employment contract is signed.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious job offer?

If you receive a job offer that seems too good to be true, take a step back. Investigate the company thoroughly and reach out to them directly using contact information from official sources.

How can I verify the legitimacy of a job offer in Latvia?

You can verify the legitimacy of a job offer by checking the employer's details through the official company registry in Latvia. Ensure that the company is registered and has a valid presence in the country.

What are the common signs of a fake job offer?

Recognizing the signs of a fake job offer can save you from financial loss. Be vigilant and trust your instincts when reviewing job offers.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without an interview or skills screening
Salary is significantly higher than the market average
Employer requests upfront payment for immigration or recruitment fees
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 in Latvia. Do not send money to personal accounts for recruitment or permit fees. Ensure that the employer has a legal status and that their job offer is backed by a formal employment contract. Research the company's website and contact details, and look for reviews or testimonials from other employees. Always be cautious of job offers that require upfront 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.
Latvia 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.