Indian nationals residing in the United Arab Emirates have been cautioned against engaging with certain visa and migration processing agencies that falsely promise overseas employment or residency permits. The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates issued the advisory following complaints from Indians who reported paying fees to such firms without receiving the promised services or refunds.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X on Monday, the Indian diplomatic missions said they had received notifications about agencies operating outside India—including within the UAE—that advertise third-country employment and residency visa services. These agencies often solicit fees through social media promotions but subsequently fail to deliver on their commitments.
The missions urged Indian expatriates to verify the legitimacy of visa processing services and to avoid relying solely on social media advertisements. They emphasized caution particularly toward agencies based outside India, advising applicants to consult official sources to ensure authenticity.
Indian travelers seeking employment or residency overseas have been advised to confirm visa requirements, application processes, and authorized channels through the embassy or consulate of the destination country in their place of residence. The missions also recommended checking the official government and embassy websites of the destination country for the most accurate, up-to-date visa information rather than depending on third-party providers.
Additionally, the Indian diplomatic representatives reminded nationals that no agency can guarantee visa approval, which remains the exclusive prerogative of the issuing government. The advisory underscored the risks of paying fees based on promises of guaranteed visas and urged applicants never to transfer money or share sensitive personal details without thorough verification.
This advisory reflects ongoing concerns about fraudulent visa and migration services targeting the Indian diaspora abroad, particularly in regions with substantial expatriate populations such as the UAE. The Indian missions continue to encourage due diligence to avoid financial loss and identity compromise.