Indian Embassy Advisory: Caution for Indians Seeking Jobs in Laos and Cambodia

Indian Embassy in Cambodia issues advisory warning Indian nationals against fraudulent job offers in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the need for caution and authorized agents.

The Indian Embassy in Cambodia has issued a crucial advisory for Indian nationals seeking employment opportunities in the Southeast Asian region, particularly in Cambodia. The advisory underscores the alarming rise in fraudulent job offers and emphasizes the importance of exercising caution while securing employment abroad.

According to the advisory, Indian nationals are urged to utilize only authorized agents approved by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for job placements. This caution comes in light of numerous reported cases where individuals have been deceived into accepting positions through unauthorized agents, leading to various forms of exploitation and abuse.

The advisory specifically highlights the prevalence of scams involving job offers for positions such as 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' or 'Customer Support Service' in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos. These dubious companies often lure unsuspecting individuals with promises of high salaries, accommodation, return air tickets, and visa assistance.

Furthermore, instances have been reported where Indian nationals are enticed into employment opportunities through neighboring countries like Thailand, only to find themselves coerced into illegal cyber work in Laos. Victims are subjected to harsh and restrictive conditions, including physical and mental abuse, while being denied proper legal documentation for their employment status.

The advisory stresses that visas obtained upon arrival in Thailand or Laos do not permit employment, and Lao authorities do not issue work permits to individuals entering the country on such visas. It emphasizes that tourist visas should be strictly used for tourism purposes, and individuals must exercise extreme caution before accepting any job offers in Laos.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been actively responding to complaints from Indian nationals who have fallen victim to these fraudulent schemes. To date, the Indian Embassy in Cambodia, in collaboration with Cambodian authorities, has rescued and repatriated approximately 250 Indian nationals, with 75 cases addressed in the past three months alone.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reaffirmed the commitment to supporting Indian nationals in Cambodia and collaborating with Cambodian authorities and Indian agencies to crack down on those responsible for perpetrating these fraudulent schemes.

In conclusion, the advisory serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with accepting job offers abroad without proper verification. Indian nationals are urged to exercise vigilance, utilize authorized agents, and seek assistance from the Indian Embassy in Cambodia when exploring employment opportunities in the region. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling prey to fraudulent employment practices and ensure a safe and legitimate work experience overseas.