How to Spot and Avoid Fake Recruitment Agents in India

Every year, lakhs of Indian workers lose their hard-earned money to fraudulent 'visa agents' who promise international jobs but disappear with fees. This guide will help you identify red flags and protect yourself.

Warning Signs of a Fake Agent

1. <strong>Demands large upfront fees</strong> — Legitimate MOIA-registered agents cannot charge more than ₹4,000 for unskilled and ₹5,000 for skilled workers.
2. <strong>Cannot show MOIA registration</strong> — Always ask for their Recruiting Agent Registration Number.
3. <strong>Promises guaranteed jobs</strong> — No agent can guarantee placement; they can only recommend.
4. <strong>Vague about employer details</strong> — You have the right to know who your employer is before signing anything.
5. <strong>Pressures you to decide quickly</strong> — This is a classic scam tactic.

How to Verify an Agent

• Check the MOIA eMigrate portal: `emigrate.gov.in`
• Call the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra helpline: 1800-11-3090
• Ask for a copy of the demand letter on employer letterhead

The Safe Way: Use My Videsh

My Videsh curates only newspaper listings from verified employers and MOIA-registered agencies. Our newspaper archive shows you original job ads — exactly as published — so you can see the employer name, salary, and contact directly.

Download the My Videsh app and join our WhatsApp community to get real-time alerts and peer support from workers who've already been through the process.