How to verify if your work visa is genuine?

To verify whether your work visa is genuine, you must check it directly with the official government authority or immigration system of the country that issued it. Fake visas are a growing problem, and many people fall victim to fraudulent agents or forged documents. Here's how to confirm the authenticity of your work visa:

General Steps to Verify a Work Visa:

1. Check the Official Government Website

• Most countries have an online visa verification system where you can:

o Enter your passport number or visa reference number

o Confirm visa status, validity, and type

• Examples:

o Canada: IRCC website

o UK: UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI)

o UAE: GDRFA or ICP Smart Services

o Saudi Arabia: Enjazit visa check

o Qatar: MOI visa inquiry

o Australia: VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online)

2. Look for Key Details on the Visa

Make sure your visa includes:

• Your full name (as per passport)

• Passport number

• Visa type/category (e.g., work permit, skilled worker, temporary employment)

• Validity dates

• Country of issue and visa number

• Official holograms, barcodes, or QR codes (in some cases)

If any of these are missing or look suspicious, it may be fake.

3. Scan the QR Code or Barcode (if present)

• Many modern visas include a QR code or barcode that links directly to the immigration database.

• You can scan it with your phone or ask the immigration authority to verify it.

4. Contact the Embassy or Consulate

• You can call, email, or visit the embassy/consulate of the country that issued the visa in your home country.

• Provide your visa copy and passport details to ask if the visa is valid.

5. Ask Your Employer to Verify Sponsorship

• In most countries, work visas are linked to a specific employer.

• Ask the employer for:

o A copy of your job offer letter

o Sponsorship or work permit approval letter

o Reference number for labor approval (e.g., LMIA in Canada, CoS in UK, MOFA in Saudi Arabia)

• Cross-check these documents with the government portal or embassy.

6. Red Flags That May Indicate a Fake Visa

• No official seal or barcode

• Too-good-to-be-true promises (e.g., ""no interview, guaranteed visa"")

• Employer or agent refuses to share documentation

• You were asked to pay upfront for the visa (especially in cash or informal ways)

• The visa was issued unusually fast without process transparency

7. Use Third-Party Legal or Visa Experts (Carefully)

• Some immigration consultants can help verify your visa, but they must be licensed by the government (e.g., RCIC in Canada, OISC in UK).

• Be cautious of unauthorized agents or “visa dealers” with no credentials.

Summary:

To check if your work visa is genuine:

• Use the official immigration website of the country

• Match visa details with your passport and job offer

• Scan QR/barcodes or contact the embassy

• Verify with your employer and ensure their sponsorship is legal

• Watch for signs of fraud or document tampering