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Moving abroad is often synonymous with adventure and discovery. But behind the excitement of departure sometimes lurk dangerous traps: scams. Housing, jobs, administrative procedures… fraudsters have no shortage of imagination when it comes to taking advantage of expatriates, often disoriented in their new environment. Here are some tips to avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy a smooth expatriation.
The Most Common Scams Abroad
First and foremost, it’s essential to know the main types of scams that expatriates are exposed to.
Housing Scams
Housing scams are perhaps the most common, especially among newcomers eager to find accommodation quickly. Overly tempting ads, requests for deposits before any viewing, fake landlords…
In some cases, fake landlords go as far as charging several people for the same non-existent property or renting properties they do not own. To avoid this, stick to reputable platforms or official agencies.
Administrative Frauds and Fake Documents
Moving abroad means going through many administrative procedures: obtaining a visa, work permit, registering for local social security, tax procedures… Certain unscrupulous individuals or agencies take advantage of the complexity of the system to pose as “facilitators” or “official consultants.”
For a fee, they offer to speed up the process or even provide the necessary documents. But often, these papers are forged or have no legal value, exposing the expatriate to administrative or even criminal sanctions. To avoid any issues, refer only to official websites of local authorities or your country’s embassy.
Job Scams
Job hunting abroad can also open the door to various frauds. Some ads posted online promise highly paid positions without requiring specific qualifications or offer to arrange visas and housing in exchange for upfront fees.
In the most serious cases, this can even lead to exploitative situations. To protect yourself, it is essential to verify the legal existence of the company and be wary of unprofessional or hard-to-reach contacts.
Preparing Before Departure: The Best Protection
Prevention remains your best ally against scams.
Learn About the Host Country
Each country has its own specificities regarding housing, employment, or administrative processes. Official embassy websites, expatriate guides, specialized forums, and social media discussion groups are all valuable sources of information. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to expatriates already on site: their experience is often the best prevention.
Protect Your Identity
Protecting your identity documents is a priority. Avoid sending copies of sensitive documents (passport, residence permit, bank statements) to unverified third parties. If possible, use secure platforms, encrypt your files, and hide unnecessary information (such as the full passport number).
Adopt the Right Habits
In a new environment, it’s normal not to have everything under control, but that shouldn’t make you naïve. Decline vague proposals, offers without guarantees, or “simplified” procedures from strangers. If in doubt, seek a second opinion: expatriate associations, consulates, or local communities can often guide you. Finally, take the time to understand how the country works: its laws, banking system, and common practices. An informed expatriate is a less vulnerable expatriate.
Victim of a Scam? How to React?
If despite all precautions you face a scam, here’s how to react.
Report the Scam to Local Authorities
The first step is to report the incident to the relevant authorities on site: the police, city hall, or a dedicated fraud department. Even if you don’t get your money back, your report can prevent other victims.
Contact Your Embassy or Consulate
Diplomatic missions can’t always intervene directly, but they can advise you on the steps to take or provide administrative assistance if necessary. They are also a point of contact in complex situations or if your safety is at risk.
Gather All Evidence
Even if the scammer seems out of reach, it’s essential to keep all elements related to the fraud: screenshots, email or message exchanges, contact details of the person or company, payment receipts… These documents will be useful for filing a complaint, warning other expatriates, or asserting your rights with an insurance company, a bank, or even in court.
Share Your Experience
Prevention is also about informing others. Share your experience. You can post a testimonial in expatriate groups, warn people on forums, or alert the platforms where you were targeted.