The Consumer Council of Fiji is advising the public to be cautious when working with visa consultants, as fraudulent operators continue to take advantage of the high demand for migration services.
Seema Shandil, the Council’s chief executive, noted that despite previous warnings, many consumers are still falling victim to visa-related scams, often transferring large sums of money without confirming the credentials of these consultants. This lack of verification has allowed scammers to operate successfully in the market, as individuals neglect to conduct essential checks or seek proof of legitimacy before sending their funds.
Shandil shared a recent case where a group of caregiving students were targeted by someone impersonating a visa consultant on social media. The individual lured the students with promises of overseas job opportunities, convincing them to transfer money. Concerns arose when more payments were demanded. An initial investigation found that multiple students from the same institution had paid hundreds of dollars without ever meeting or talking to the individual, as all communication was done through social media.
Shandil expressed alarm at how easily these fraudsters can operate, highlighting a concerning lack of vigilance among consumers. She mentioned that scammers are exploiting the strong desire among Fijians to secure overseas jobs and migration opportunities, often taking significant amounts of money in return for empty promises. She urged consumers to be cautious about sending money to individuals they have only interacted with online and to verify all claims before making any financial commitments.
Legitimate companies looking to hire workers from Fiji typically do not reach out through social media or ask for upfront payments. The intense desire for overseas opportunities has made many Fijians susceptible to scammers who promise quick and effortless migration pathways, resulting in substantial financial losses.
Consumers are encouraged to take protective measures, beginning with confirming that the visa consultant is registered and recognized by the appropriate authorities. It is also important to check reviews, testimonials, and previous cases to confirm the consultant’s legitimacy and request a formal contract that clearly details the terms and conditions of the visa services offered.
Additionally, consumers should be aware that no consultant can guarantee visa approvals, as promises that appear too good to be true often indicate potential scams. Those who believe they have been victimized by a visa consultant can file a complaint with the Council by calling the National Consumer Helpline toll-free at 155 or by emailing complaints@consumersfiji.org.