Concerns grow over misleading visa consultancy practices linked to Fiji’s Pacific Engagement Visa ballot
Fiji’s Consumers Council is warning that some visa consultants are not clearly explaining the difference between entering the Pacific Engagement Visa ballot and the actual visa application process. While consultants may charge for their services, applicants should be aware that ballot entry costs about 36, and entry into the ballot does not guarantee a visa or constitute a visa application. Only those selected from the ballot are invited to lodge a permanent residence visa application, which carries additional fees.
The council’s Chief Executive Seema Shandil says the issue stems from consultants who do not provide a transparent breakdown of what is being charged, or fail to distinguish between ballot entry and the subsequent visa process. Misleading advertisements have also appeared, including a TikTok claim that a permanent residence can be secured for around 80, adding to public confusion. In some cases, applicants have been charged lump sums without a clear itemization of consultancy versus official fees.
Shandil urges all Fijians considering the PEV to fully understand the process, request clear breakdowns of charges, and verify that services offered do not guarantee outcomes. Transparency and informed decision-making are essential to avoid unnecessary costs and false expectations.
Context from previous warnings and cases
The warnings from the Consumers Council of Fiji reflect ongoing concerns about visa-related scams that target would-be migrants. Prior reports describe how scammers operate through social media, impersonating legitimate visa consultants and promising overseas job opportunities or easy migration paths in exchange for upfront payments. In several incidents, caregiving students paid hundreds of dollars without ever meeting the supposed consultant, with all communication occurring online.
Authority and safeguards
Legitimate recruiters generally do not reach out via social media or require upfront payments. Consumers are urged to verify that any visa consultant is registered with the appropriate authorities, check reviews and testimonials, and request a formal contract detailing the terms of the services offered. No consultant can guarantee visa approvals—claims that seem too good to be true are often a red flag.
What readers should do
– Ask for a detailed, written quotation that itemizes consultancy fees and official visa costs.
– Confirm that the consultant is registered and recognized by the relevant authorities.
– Request a formal contract outlining the scope of services, responsibilities, and deliverables.
– Seek independent verification of the consultant’s credibility, including reviews or past client experiences.
– Be cautious of deals advertised on social media or short-cut promises to “guarantee” visas.
– If you’ve been affected, contact the National Consumer Helpline at 155 or email complaints@consumersfiji.org for assistance.
Brief summary
The Fiji Consumer Council warns that some visa consultants blur the line between ballot entry and the actual visa process, charge lump sums without breakdowns, and use misleading ads. Readers are urged to seek clear, written information, verify credentials, and insist on contracts to protect themselves from scams.
Additional commentary
This situation underscores the importance of consumer protection in migration services, particularly in high-demand programs like the Pacific Engagement Visa. Clear guidance from authorities and vigilant verification by applicants can reduce exposure to scams and save families from costly mistakes. Encouraging online transparency while offering accessible channels to report suspected fraud will help safeguard vulnerable applicants and maintain trust in legitimate relocation pathways.
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