By Sue-Ann de Wet

The decision to emigrate is one of the biggest and most profound choices a person can make. It is exciting and brings hope and expectations of a new beginning – but it is also precisely here where deception and fraud easily take hold. In a world where information is easily accessible and the dream of a better life abroad is often sold as the answer to all your problems, it is essential to be sober, informed and cautious.

Every year hundreds of people fall prey to so-called agents or organisations who falsely promise job opportunities, visas, residence or fast-track emigration processes – all at a considerable cost.

The dark side of the emigration dream

In many cases, emigration is marketed to South Africans as an easy way out of problems: better security, higher salaries, first-world service delivery and a bright future for your children. This marketing often creates the illusion that everything will automatically be better as soon as you set foot on another continent. However, the price you pay – emotionally, socially and financially – is just as often overlooked.

Scammers and dishonest “consultants” exploit this exaggerated, proprietary marketing. Many people pay thousands of rands to so-called emigration agencies, employers or relocation services that later do not exist or cannot be delivered. Others get caught up in administrative red tape without the necessary visas, work permits or legal assistance – and then it is too late.

Common forms of emigration fraud

1. Fake job offers
   You receive an email with an impressive job offer from Canada, Australia or Europe – but first, you must pay administration fees, visa applications or document verification. But the job doesn’t exist and the money is lost forever.

2. “Professional” consultants without registration
   Many so-called immigration consultants are not registered with immigration advisory bodies. They provide incorrect advice, mislead people about their chances of visa success and charge exorbitant fees.

3. False promises of permanent residence
   Some institutions promise permanent residency in exchange for investments, studies or temporary work but fail to explain the conditions, restrictions and timelines. Then you end up in a foreign country without rights or security.

4. Document forgery
   You are persuaded to use illegal or forged documents for faster approval, which can lead to serious legal consequences.

5. Property or rental fraud
   You are asked to pay in advance for accommodation in your new country, only to find out the apartment or house doesn’t exist at all.

Scammer tactics

Scammers are clever and often use professional websites, fake reviews, forged documents and convincing communication to gain trust. They use social media, WhatsApp groups and emails to target vulnerable people who are desperate to start a new life. Some even claim to have connections with embassies or international employers.

Common red flags

Watch out for the following warning signs:

• The “agency” or person asks for a large upfront payment for their services.
• They pressure you to decide quickly – “the offer expires tomorrow.”
• There is no physical office address or valid contact number.
• You receive little or no legal documentation of the process.
• The person or organisation is not registered on the official immigration websites of the country in question.

Protect yourself. Be smart, be informed.

1. Do your own research. Read official government websites and talk to people who have been through it themselves.
2. Only use registered consultants. In countries like Canada and Australia, immigration consultants must be legally registered. Check this.
3. Don’t pay upfront for promises. No credible service provider will demand large sums of money without justification or a contract.
4. Contact embassies directly. They will provide accurate information for free.
5. Talk to other expats. Engage networks such as community platforms for honest feedback and support.
6. Be sceptical of promises that sound too good to be true. Emigration is never quick, easy or free – if it sounds like that, it is probably a trap.
7. Finally, trust your instincts. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Emigration is not a quick fix

Although many people successfully relocate abroad and find new opportunities, it is important to understand that emigration also brings loss, sacrifice and tremendous challenges. You leave behind your networks, culture, language, habits and often your emotional security. Adaptation takes time – often years – and brings uncertainty and isolation.

When emigration is marketed as a simple solution to all your problems, your hopes are being played with dangerously. Emigration may be an opportunity, but it is not necessarily better – simply different. Without thorough research, realistic expectations and credible guidance, it can be disastrous. Don’t let fear or false hope drive you to make uninformed decisions. Don’t fall victim to people who exploit your dreams for their gain. Make an informed decision and remember: There is no one right path for everyone – only your own.