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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?

The Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee scam is a prevalent issue in the Philippines, targeting job seekers, skilled workers, care workers, and hospitality workers. In this scheme, fraudsters send enticing job offers to potential applicants, often through emails or social media. These offers usually promise high salaries and excellent working conditions. However, before any official employment is confirmed, the scammer requests payment for various fees, such as work permits, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation, courier fees, or document processing.

How do these scams operate?

Scammers typically create fake company profiles and job listings to lure candidates. They may use official-looking websites or email addresses to establish credibility. Once the job seeker expresses interest, the scammer pressures them to make payments for services that are often unnecessary or non-existent. Victims may find themselves in precarious situations, having paid significant amounts of money without receiving any job offer or support.

What should I be aware of regarding these scams?

Job seekers must remain vigilant about these fraudulent practices. The Philippine government has issued warnings about such scams, emphasizing the need for caution when applying for jobs, especially overseas. Always ensure that you verify job offers and the legitimacy of employers before proceeding with any financial transactions.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without an interview or skills assessment
Salary is significantly higher than the average market rate
Employer requests upfront payment for immigration or recruitment fees
Company website, address, or registration cannot be verified
Communication is primarily through unofficial channels like personal emails or social media

How to protect yourself

To avoid falling victim to this scam, always verify the legitimacy of the employer through official company registries and contact details in the Philippines. Be cautious about paying recruitment or permit fees to personal accounts. Confirm if the employer is legally registered and recognized. consider reaching out to local labor offices or the Department of Labor and Employment for guidance. Trust your instincts; if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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.
Philippines 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.