Indian Embassy in UAE warns citizens of visa scam agencies demanding fees
India's diplomatic missions in the UAE cautioned nationals about fraudulent visa agencies that collect money but fail to deliver promised services, urging verification through official channels.
On October 12, the Indian diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates released a warning after multiple reports of visa and migration agencies charging Indian applicants for overseas employment and residency visas but not delivering the services or returning fees. The advisory, issued by the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, cautions citizens against relying on social-media advertisements or private processors, especially those operating outside India.
Applicants should verify visa criteria, application steps and authorized channels with the destination country’s embassy or consulate and consult official government websites. The missions stressed that visa approval is solely at the discretion of the issuing government and no private firm can guarantee it. One outlet alert follows an August 24 advisory that highlighted risks of sharing passport, Emirates ID or biometric data with unauthorized persons, which could be exploited for financial fraud. Indians needing assistance are directed to the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra.
Why it matters
The warning helps Indian workers avoid financial loss and identity theft by exposing visa fraud in the UAE.
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