Introduction
Every year, thousands of Kenyans dream of working abroad — seeking better pay, career growth, and the chance to support their families back home. Unfortunately, this dream is often targeted by fraudulent recruiters who exploit jobseekers through fake overseas job offers. These scams have become increasingly sophisticated, making it essential for anyone seeking international employment to learn how to identify and avoid them.
At Global Workhub Limited (GWL), we are committed to protecting our clients from dishonest recruitment practices. Here are key ways to spot fake job offers and stay safe during your international job search.
1. Unrealistic Promises and Salaries
One of the most common signs of a fake overseas job offer is an unrealistic promise. If an agency or individual offers you a high-paying job abroad with minimal qualifications or no interview process, it’s a red flag.
Fraudsters often advertise salaries that sound too good to be true — such as “Earn $3,000 monthly as a cleaner in Dubai.” Genuine recruiters will always provide realistic salary expectations that match industry standards and job roles.
Tip: Always cross-check typical salaries in your target country through official websites or embassy resources before accepting any offer.
2. Upfront Payment Demands
Authentic recruitment agencies do not demand large upfront fees before confirming a legitimate job. While some service fees (like document processing or medical checkups) may apply, payments should be transparent, receipted, and made only after verification of the job offer.
Be cautious if someone asks for “urgent payment” via mobile money or personal accounts. Legitimate agencies like Global Workhub Limited use official business accounts and issue proper receipts for any approved charges.
3. Unverified or Missing Agency License
In Kenya, all overseas recruitment firms must be licensed by the National Employment Authority (NEA). You can verify an agency’s license on the NEA website or by calling their offices directly.
A genuine agency will proudly display its registration details, physical address, and contact numbers. Fake recruiters, on the other hand, often operate only online, use fake office addresses, or refuse to meet in person.
Tip: Before submitting your documents, always confirm the agency’s NEA registration and verify their office location.
4. Lack of Official Documentation
Every legal overseas job process involves official paperwork — including a contract letter, work visa, medical report, and pre-departure orientation. If the recruiter cannot produce these documents or pressures you to travel on a “visit visa,” it’s likely a scam.
Remember, no one should travel for work abroad without an employment visa and a signed contract approved by the employer and relevant government departments.
5. Vague Job Descriptions and Poor Communication
Scammers often provide vague details about the job role, employer, or location. If you notice spelling mistakes, unprofessional emails, or messages sent through social media platforms (instead of official company channels), proceed with caution.
Legitimate recruiters communicate professionally through official company emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings.
6. Verify the Employer
Even if the agency seems genuine, it’s crucial to confirm that the employer abroad actually exists. Use Google or LinkedIn to check the company’s background. You can also contact the country’s embassy in Kenya for assistance in verifying whether the employer is registered to hire foreign workers.
At Global Workhub Limited, all our international job offers come from verified employers with valid contracts and government approvals. We never post or promote unverified opportunities.
7. Beware of “Too Fast” Processing
Some scammers lure jobseekers by promising a quick visa within a few days. In reality, processing for most legitimate overseas jobs — including interviews, document verification, and visa issuance — takes 2 to 8 weeks depending on the country.
Be patient and skeptical of any recruiter who claims to send you abroad immediately without proper documentation.
8. Check Online Reviews and Testimonials
Always research the agency’s reputation. Check reviews, testimonials, or social media pages for feedback from past clients. Reputable firms like Global Workhub Limited maintain open communication and positive client reviews that demonstrate transparency and professionalism.
If an agency has no online presence or hides customer feedback, that’s a potential red flag.
Conclusion
Securing a genuine overseas job can be life-changing — but only if the process is handled legally and transparently. Protect yourself by verifying every step, avoiding shortcuts, and working only with licensed and credible recruitment agencies.
At Global Workhub Limited, our mission is to help Kenyans achieve their international career goals safely. We connect jobseekers to verified global employers and guide them through every stage of the recruitment process — from document preparation to departure.
Your dream job abroad is possible. Just make sure it’s a real one.
