Kuwait Job Scam: Agency Owner Arrested For European Visa Fraud
Kuwait City, September 4, 2026: A significant employment fraud scheme has been uncovered in Kuwait, where an agency owner has been arrested for allegedly defrauding 25 expatriates. Victims reported paying between KD 2,000 and KD 2,500 each under the false promise of securing work visas and employment in European countries. According to local reports, the complainants primarily consist of Asian expatriates. While the nationalities have not been officially disclosed, the incident serves as a critical warning for the Indian community in Kuwait, which numbers approximately one million. The victims stated that they initiated contact with the agency after seeing advertisements. Despite submitting valid passports, Kuwaiti residency documents, and signing contracts that guaranteed recruitment within months, no visas or employment were provided. When victims demanded refunds, the agency claimed the funds had already been spent on administrative procedures. Following a formal complaint at a Capital Governorate police station, the Criminal Investigation Department launched an investigation. The agency owner, who initially failed to appear for questioning, was later arrested with the authorization of the Public Prosecution. During interrogation, the suspect admitted to receiving the funds but claimed he was attempting to secure jobs and requested more time. He stated that returning the money would be difficult.
Financial Impact And Investigation Details
The defrauded amounts of KD 2,000 to KD 2,500 represent a substantial financial loss, equivalent to approximately ₹5.7 lakh to ₹7.1 lakh, often totaling a worker's annual savings. The Embassy of India in Kuwait has consistently advised job seekers to verify offers through legitimate channels, warning against unauthorized agents and fraudulent social media advertisements. Authorities emphasize that recruitment should only be conducted through agents registered with the Protector General of Emigrants, and status should be verified via the eMigrate portal.
Official Guidelines And Safety Advice
Candidates are advised to demand original copies of the Demand Letter, Power of Attorney, and signed Employment Contracts. Furthermore, applicants should confirm that the visa category matches the job title—typically Article 18 for private sector employment and Article 20 for domestic work. For those residing in Kuwait seeking overseas employment, the Embassy recommends verifying the foreign employer's official website, cross-checking immigration portals, and avoiding payments to personal bank accounts. Red flags include promises of guaranteed visas, 100 percent confirmation, or requests for urgent cash payments without transparent documentation.