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🇲🇹 Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee

HighEmployment FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read4 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 Malta, job seekers, especially skilled workers, care workers, and those in the hospitality sector, are increasingly targeted by scammers offering fake job opportunities. These fraudsters often send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to have job openings in Malta. After expressing interest, applicants are then instructed to pay various fees, such as work permits, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation, and courier costs before any official employment contract is provided.

How can I identify this scam?

Many individuals may wonder how to spot a fake job offer. Scammers typically create a sense of urgency and pressure job seekers into making quick payments. They may use official-looking documents or websites to appear legitimate, further complicating the identification of the scam. You should remain cautious and conduct thorough research before proceeding with any job offer that requires upfront payments.

What should I do if I encounter this scam?

If you suspect a job offer is fraudulent, you should report it to the relevant authorities in Malta. The Identity Malta Agency is responsible for immigration and work permits, and they can provide guidance on legitimate employment opportunities. Always verify the authenticity of the employer through official channels and avoid engaging with suspicious job offers.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without an interview or skills assessment
Salary offered is significantly higher than typical market rates
Employer requests upfront payment for immigration or recruitment fees
Company website, physical address, or registration details cannot be verified

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from falling victim to this scam, always verify the employer through official company registries and contact details in Malta. Do not pay any recruitment or permit fees to personal accounts, as this is a common tactic used by scammers. Confirm whether the employer is legally registered and authorized to hire foreign workers. consult the Identity Malta Agency for guidance on legitimate job offers and work permits.

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.
Malta 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.