UAE shares guidelines to help job seekers avoid visa scams

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the UAE has warned job seekers to be cautious of fake job offers and visa scams. These scams target individuals seeking employment in the UAE and often require them to pay fictitious fees.

According to MoHRE, some scammers pretend to be real employers or recruitment agencies and demand money for job processing, visas, or entry permits. The ministry made it clear that real job offers in the UAE are always issued through MoHRE and must include an official work entry permit.

“If someone offers you a job in the UAE, make sure it comes through MoHRE,” the ministry said. “You must have an official entry permit before starting work. Working on a tourist or visit visa is illegal and can lead to fines or legal action.”

How to Stay Safe

• Verify the offer: Check that the job offer is issued by MoHRE and signed by an authorised employer.

• Confirm the status: Visit the MoHRE website and use the “Application Status Inquiry” tool to verify the offer number.

• Get a work entry permit: After signing your offer, your employer must arrange an official electronic entry permit through MoHRE.

• Do not work on a tourist or visit visa.

• No upfront fees: Employers must pay all recruitment costs — job seekers should never be asked to pay.

• Check company details: Confirm the company’s registration on the National Economic Register.

• Verify visa authenticity:

  • For Dubai, use the GDRFA website.

  • For other emirates, use the ICP eChannels platform.

• Avoid middlemen or unlicensed agents. Only licensed airlines (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Air Arabia), hotels, or registered travel agencies can issue tourist visas.

• Check official fees before making any payment and contact Amer live chat (Dubai) or ICP eChannels (other emirates) for help.

• Remember: Residency visas cannot be processed outside the UAE — you must first enter with a valid work entry permit.

The ministry urged job seekers to stay alert, verify every offer, and never share money or personal documents with unverified sources.

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