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Migration Scams
Migration and visa scams in Australia have been a growing concern owing to the increasing number of people looking to permanently migrate to Australia for better opportunities and a higher quality of life. Such scams target individuals irrespective of background, age, or income level. It is advisable to remain cautious and look for signs of a possible scam. The Department of Home Affairs also provides detailed information to help individuals protect themselves from migration fraud.
The Department of Home Affairs advises individuals to deal with official Australian government channels for all their visa requirements, such as the department website, reputable travel agents, Australian visa application centres, or the Australian High Commission or Embassy in the respective individual’s country.
Individuals must be cautious that they may be victims of scams if:
- A given advertisement features only a first name and number.
- The employer or agent demands a significant upfront cash payment for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a Visitor visa.
- The entity makes obtaining an ETA or Visitor visa for work purposes mandatory.
- Setting up a company and applying for an Australian Business Number (ABN) is required for employment.
- The agent arranges counterfeit documents and photographs.
- The agent provides only a handwritten contract or agreement.
- The agent makes a promise of permanent residence in Australia.
- The Australian coat of arms is misused on the website to create a false impression of government approval of what the agent/employer offers.
- Individuals are told that they will be paid in cash only.
- No Australian Government Tax File Number (TFN) requirement is communicated.
- The employer or agent in Australia has no ABN.
Reports of individuals engaged in migration fraud, operating illegally, or acting as an unregistered migration agent can be submitted through Australia’s Border Watch.
Individuals who fall victim to migration fraud can also report their issues to Australia’s Border Watch.
Individuals can also report suspected scams to SCAM Watch – an independent website by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Individuals who have been scammed by a person or a group outside of Australia should consider reporting the incident to the local police or consumer protection authorities in their home country.
FBP International prioritises the security and privacy of its clients and will never request sensitive information in an unsolicited manner. Individuals are advised not to respond to questionable messages or demands and to report any possible scam incident immediately.
For more information, visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/visa-scams/overview