Fake job offers and fake agencies are common on social media. A few checks take less than an hour and protect your money and your passport.
1. Check the company in the official registry
Every European employer and every UK company is listed in a public registry. Ask for the full company name and registration number and look it up yourself. Worrki Ltd, for example, is company no. 17366027 at Companies House.
2. Pay only through official company channels
Pay the company, not a person. A real service gives you an invoice in the company's name and accepts payment by card or bank transfer to a company account. Never send money to a private wallet or to someone's personal number.
3. Nobody can guarantee a visa
Visa decisions are made by the consulate. An agency that promises a guaranteed visa is either mistaken or lying. A fair service explains what happens if the application is refused because of a document problem — a refund or a free reapplication — in its written terms.
4. Read the contract before you pay
You should receive the service agreement, the price and what is included in writing. Check what is paid separately: visa fees, insurance, translations and travel are usually your own costs.
5. Meet the people
Ask for a video call with your manager. A real team shows their faces, answers questions about the employer and the conditions, and does not rush you.
6. Keep your original passport
To start, a service needs a clear scan of your passport, not the original. You hand your passport only to the consulate or visa centre when you apply.
Read more about how Worrki verifies employers and handles payments.