Exposing the truth: How to avoid immigration scams in the Middle East

Trusted immigration consultant Y-Axis offers regulated pathways

Last updated: May 07, 2025 | 12:58

2 MIN READ

Clint Khan, Director, Y-Axis Middle East

With the rising desire to move abroad for better jobs, education, or permanent residency, a dangerous trend has also emerged across the Middle East — a surge in fake immigration consultants and job scam artists preying on hopeful expats.

From guaranteed jobs in Europe to too-good-to-be-true visa approvals, many residents across the UAE have fallen victim to these schemes. These unregulated agents often operate from shared spaces, offer no legal protection, make verbal promises, and vanish after collecting hefty fees — often between Dh10,000 to Dh30,000 or more.

At Y-Axis, the world’s largest and most trusted immigration, education, and visa consultancy, we speak to clients every single day who have been misled or rejected due to poor advice from such agents.

"Unfortunately, we regularly deal with individuals who’ve lost time, money, and peace of mind," says Clint Khan, Director of Y-Axis Middle East. "Some come to us after being scammed with fake job offers or being misinformed about visa rules. Our job then becomes not just helping them reapply — but to rebuild their trust in the system."

Red flags to watch out for

Job guarantee claims
No legitimate immigration company can guarantee a job abroad. Job offers depend on employers, not agents.
No written agreement
Verbal promises mean nothing. Reputed consultants provide clear service agreements outlining the scope of work and refund clauses.
Upfront payments to personal accounts
Never transfer money to an individual’s account. Always check if the company has a valid business license.
Unregistered or unregulated firms
Always ask if the company is registered with the UAE government and whether they work with licensed immigration lawyers or RCICs (Canada), MARA agents (Australia), or OISC (UK).
No office infrastructure or call recording
Visit their office. Is it professional? Do they have trained staff? Are calls recorded for your protection?
Pressure tactics
Genuine consultants give you time to decide. Scammers often push you to pay immediately.

What you can do:

• Do research and check their knowledge
“If they can’t explain the process clearly, they shouldn’t be handling your future.”

• Ask who processes your case. Are they certified?
“A certified expert doesn’t just process applications — they protect your chances.”

• Ask them to show you success or visas granted
“No proof, no trust. Real consultants can show real results.”

• Visit their office physically. Don’t rely only on WhatsApp messages.
“If they only exist on WhatsApp, they might disappear just as fast.”

• Look for a global presence. Trusted firms operate across multiple countries, not from shared desks.
“A strong global footprint means stronger support for you.”

• Check if their calls are recorded
“Call recordings protect your rights and keep everyone accountable.”

At Y-Axis, with offices across the UAE, India, Canada, UK and Australia, we’ve helped counsel over 1 million people and pursue their dreams legally— whether it’s for Canada or Australia PR, Germany’s Opportunity Card, UAE Golden Visa, student visas, or visitor visas.

With in-house lawyers, licensed agents, and over 26 years of experience, Y-Axis offers transparency, legal compliance, and peace of mind — a critical difference in an industry clouded by deception.

“Education is the first defence,” adds Clint Khan. “We encourage people to ask the right questions. If your consultant isn’t regulated or can’t explain the visa process clearly — walk away.”

If you’ve had a bad experience or want to avoid one, speak to the experts.
Contact info@y-axis.ae or visit www.y-axis.ae