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🇺🇬 Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee

HighEmployment FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read8 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 Uganda, the Fake Job Offer and Work Permit Fee scam targets job seekers, particularly skilled workers, care workers, and those in the hospitality sector. Fraudsters typically send unsolicited job offers that appear legitimate, enticing individuals with promises of high salaries and attractive benefits. However, these offers come with a catch: the scammers request payment for various fees such as work permits, medical examinations, insurance, accommodation, courier services, or document processing before any employment contract is signed. Many victims find themselves in a precarious situation, having paid these fees only to discover that the job does not exist.

How can you identify this scam?

Potential victims may wonder how to differentiate between a legitimate job offer and a fraudulent one. You should remain vigilant and conduct thorough research before engaging with any job offer, particularly those that require upfront payments.

What steps should you take if you suspect a scam?

If you believe you have encountered this scam, you should report it to local authorities, such as the Uganda Police or the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. They can provide guidance and support. you can refer to official resources like the Uganda Immigration website for more information on legitimate job offers and work permits.

Red flags

Job offer arrives without an interview or skills assessment
Salary offered is significantly higher than the market average
Employer requests payment for immigration or recruitment fees upfront
The company's website, address, or registration cannot be verified

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 in Uganda. Make sure to contact the company using official contact details rather than those provided in the unsolicited job offer. Never pay recruitment or permit fees to personal bank accounts, and confirm whether the employer is legally registered to operate in Uganda. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, 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.
Uganda 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.