How to Verify a Job Offer and Avoid Scams in Overseas Employment – A Guide for Pakistanis
In Pakistan, thousands of individuals dream of going abroad for employment in pursuit of financial stability, better earning potential, and a brighter future for their families. Overseas employment offers opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers alike — particularly in Gulf countries, Europe, and beyond.
However, alongside genuine opportunities, many fall victim to scams, illegal agents, false job offers, and exploitation due to lack of awareness and poor verification practices.
This article serves as a complete guide for Pakistanis seeking overseas jobs — especially those from middle-class or lower-income backgrounds — to understand how to verify a job offer, avoid scams, and safeguard their future.
1. Why Job Verification Is Crucial for Overseas Employment
A job offer from abroad can look promising, but without verification, it may be:
- Entirely fraudulent
- Overstated in terms of salary or benefits
- Issued for a different job role
- Processed through an illegal visa route
Verifying a job offer before making any payments or arrangements is not just recommended — it’s essential.
2. Identify and Work with a Licensed Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP)
The first and most critical step is to only deal with an Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP) licensed by the Government of Pakistan.
✅ How to verify an OEP:
- Visit the official Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment website: https://beoe.gov.pk
- Navigate to the “OEP List” section
- Search by license number or agency name
- Check if their license is active, not blacklisted, and matches their contact information
Red flags:
- Agent refuses to share their license number
- Demands cash payment without documentation
- Operates through social media only, without a registered office
A licensed OEP ensures legal processing, proper contracts, and is accountable under Pakistani law.
3. Verify the Job Demand Letter and Employment Contract
Once you’re offered a job abroad, two key documents must be reviewed and verified:
a) Demand Letter
- Issued by the foreign employer to the OEP
- Specifies the number of workers required, job titles, salaries, benefits, and contract terms
- Must be attested by the Pakistani Embassy in the employer’s country
b) Job Offer / Employment Contract
- Should clearly mention:
- Job title and duties
- Monthly salary in local currency
- Accommodation and food provisions
- Medical insurance and transport
- Working hours, days off, and contract duration
- Must be signed by the employer and employee
Tip: Always cross-check the employer’s contact details and email them directly to confirm the job offer is genuine.
4. Confirm the Visa Type – Never Travel on a Visit Visa for Work
One of the most common and dangerous scams is sending workers abroad on visit visas with promises of converting them later into work visas. This is illegal and extremely risky.
Risks of going on a visit visa:
- No legal protection or labor rights
- Possible detention, deportation, or blacklisting
- Employer can exploit the worker with no consequences
Always ensure:
- You are issued a proper work visa (employment/residence visa)
- Your visa is stamped with the correct job title as per your contract
- The visa is issued by the country’s official labor ministry or immigration authority
5. Obtain Protector Clearance from the Bureau of Emigration
Protector clearance is a legal requirement for every Pakistani worker going abroad for employment. This clearance protects you under Pakistan’s Emigration Ordinance and ensures all your documents and employment conditions are verified.
How to apply:
- Through your licensed OEP or personally at the Protectorate of Emigrants Office
- Submit:
- Valid job offer and demand letter
- Work visa and passport
- CNIC and medical report (GAMCA-approved)
- Proof of payment and insurance
Once cleared, you’ll receive a Protector Stamp on your passport.
Why it matters:
- Provides legal protection
- Allows you to claim assistance in case of disputes
- Enables your family to seek help via OPF or embassy in case of emergencies
6. Be Cautious with Payment and Fee Structures
Licensed OEPs are regulated under the government’s fee structure. If someone asks for exorbitant fees, chances are they’re running a scam.
Fee guidelines:
- Official fee structure is listed by BEOE
- OEPs must issue proper receipts for all payments
- Avoid paying large sums upfront, especially without a signed contract and visa confirmation
Important:
Do not deposit money into personal accounts. Always use official, traceable payment methods.
7. Learn About the Country’s Labor Laws and Worker Rights
Before traveling, understand the labor laws and your rights as a foreign worker in the destination country. This includes:
- Minimum wage laws
- Legal working hours and overtime
- Health and safety standards
- Access to grievance mechanisms
- Right to retain your passport (employers cannot legally keep it)
Keep the contact information of the Pakistani Embassy or Consulate with you for emergency help.
8. Avoid These Common Pitfalls
Here are some real-world examples of traps that many Pakistani workers fall into:
| Scam/Pitfall | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Fake job offer letters | Call the company directly or confirm via embassy |
| “Visa in progress” excuse | Demand official visa copy and job contract |
| Verbal salary or job promises | Only trust written and signed documents |
| Visit visa employment promises | Always demand a work visa |
| Agent tells you “no need for protector clearance” | That’s a lie. It’s mandatory |
| No medical test or fake report | Use GAMCA-approved medical centers only |
9. Use Official Platforms and Training Institutions
To boost your chances of safe and legal employment abroad, use government-verified platforms:
- Bureau of Emigration Job Portal: https://jobs.beoe.gov.pk
- NAVTTC / TEVTA: For skill certifications that are recognized internationally
- Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF): Offers legal aid, welfare, and reintegration services
Final Advice: Stay Smart, Stay Safe
The dream of working abroad can change your life, but it must be pursued through safe, legal, and verified channels. Scammers prey on desperation, and once abroad, a worker’s options are limited if something goes wrong.
✔ Work only with licensed OEPs
✔ Never accept visit visa jobs
✔ Get protector clearance
✔ Verify job letters and salaries
✔ Keep copies of all documents
✔ Know your rights in the destination country
Elite Umer Overseas Employment – Your Trusted Partner
As a government-licensed Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP), Elite Umer Overseas Employment is committed to helping middle-class Pakistanis secure genuine, well-paying jobs abroad — especially in the Gulf, Europe, and beyond.
We manage your employment process from:
- Skills training and certification
- Verified job placements
- Visa processing and documentation
- Travel, accommodation, and legal compliance
No shortcuts. No scams. Only verified opportunities.
If you’re planning to work abroad, contact us for a free consultation and step-by-step guidance to protect your future and build a better life overseas — the right way.
