Thinking of a job in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman or Bahrain? Follow these steps to apply safely and avoid fraud.
1. Check your passport: ECR or ECNR
Indian passports are either ECR (Emigration Check Required) or ECNR (Emigration Check Not Required). If your passport is ECR, you need emigration clearance from the Protector of Emigrants before you can go to work in Gulf countries. This is done through the government’s eMigrate system, usually by your recruiting agent or employer.
2. Use only a registered recruiting agent
Every genuine recruiting agent in India must be registered with the Ministry of External Affairs. Before you pay anything, search the agent’s name or licence number on the official eMigrate portal (emigrate.gov.in). Agents can only charge the service fee allowed by the government. Always ask for a receipt.
3. Read your offer and contract
Get the offer letter and employment contract in writing before you travel. Check the job title, basic salary, allowances, working hours, accommodation, food, leave, air ticket and contract period. Use our Gulf Salary to INR calculator to see what the salary means in Rupees.
4. Medical test
Gulf countries need a medical test at a GCC-approved medical centre before the visa is issued. Book it only through the official GCC medical appointment system or as guided by your employer. Do not pay touts who promise a “guaranteed fit” report.
5. Documents and attestation
Keep your passport, educational certificates, experience letters and photos ready. Many Gulf employers, especially for engineers, ask for degree attestation, and some countries require registration with their engineering council. Ask your employer which attestation they need.
6. Insurance and help abroad
ECR workers must take the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana insurance policy. Save the contact details of the Indian Embassy in your country. If you face a problem with your employer or agent, you can register a complaint on the government’s MADAD portal (madad.gov.in).
Warning signs of a fake job
- Asking for a large fee before any interview or offer.
- No written contract, or a contract that differs from what was promised.
- Agent not registered on eMigrate.
- Asking you to travel on a visit visa to work.
See the latest Gulf jobs. Always apply through official links and registered agents.