Every year, Cameroonians lose large sums believing they are paying for a visa, a job contract or a “fast-track procedure”. Here are the signs that should alert you, whether you go through an agency, a middleman or a contact met on social media.
1. You are promised a guaranteed visa
Nobody can guarantee a visa: the decision belongs solely to the authorities of the destination country. A serious agency helps you submit the best possible application, without ever promising the outcome.
2. You are sold a job contract
A genuine employer does not make you pay to get a job. In Canada, the employer applies for the labour market impact assessment (LMIA), not the worker. A “contract” sent without an interview, in exchange for payment, is a major warning sign.
3. You are offered to “reserve” an appointment for money
Consular appointments are booked on the official platforms of consulates or their service providers (VFS Global, TLScontact…). The only fees are the service fees published by these platforms.
4. You are advised to alter your documents
A fake employment letter, a “tweaked” bank statement, a bought diploma: this is misrepresentation. For Canada, it can lead to a five-year ban. No gain is worth that risk.
5. The website looks like an official portal… but isn’t
Always check the address: Canadian government websites end in canada.ca, French government websites in gouv.fr. A website charging “processing fees” for a free official form is suspicious.
6. You are rushed
“Only two places left”, “the offer expires tonight”: pressure is a classic technique. A visa application is prepared, not decided in an hour.
7. Nobody has an address
No office, no business registration, just a WhatsApp number: before paying, ask to meet the person and to see the company’s documents.
8. No receipt, no contract
Every payment should come with a receipt, and the service with a contract that clearly describes what is done, and what is not.
How we work at FTGroup
Our office is located at Makepe Bloc L, Hôtel Alicia entrance, in Douala, and we are listed in the trade and companies register. Every client receives a detailed quote, a service agreement to sign and a receipt for each payment. We are facilitators: we help you prepare and follow up your file, without ever promising a visa.
Unsure about an offer? Write to us: we help you check it before any payment.
To go further: our guide to immigrating to Canada and our work permit guide.
