Stay safe · 1 min read
The Tourist Visa Job Scam: Why You Should Never Travel on a Visit Visa to Work
By AssignmentsAbroad ·
One of the most common recruitment scams goes like this: "Come on a visit visa. We will convert it into a work visa after you arrive." Treat this as a serious warning sign.
What the Ministry of External Affairs says
The Ministry of External Affairs explicitly warns against accepting this arrangement. Do not travel for employment on a tourist or visit visa on the assumption that it can be converted later.
Why it is risky
If the conversion does not happen, you can be left in a foreign country without lawful work authorisation, without a job and without money. Follow the destination country's legal work authorisation process before you start employment.
What to do instead
- Ask for the work visa or permit process in writing, and confirm it with the appropriate authorities.
- Check whether Indian emigration clearance applies to you.
- If the recruiter insists on a visit visa, stop the process and verify with the employer directly.
Key takeaway
A genuine job needs a genuine work visa. Never board a flight to work on a visit visa because of a promise.
Official resources
- MEA guidance for intending emigrants. Official Ministry of External Affairs guidance on overseas employment, documents and precautions.
- eMigrate portal. Check a recruiting agent's registration and access overseas employment services.