THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) 7 has closed a visa consultancy firm at the Cebu Business Park for alleged illegal recruitment. The company, identified as Visa to America Manila Inc. - Cebu, was accused of recruiting teachers and hospitality workers for jobs in the United States without a valid recruitment license.
According to DMW 7, the firm was charging applicants a placement fee of $5,400 to $8,500. In return, they were promised jobs with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $100,000 per year. The company offered J1 and H1B visas, specifically targeting professionals like teachers.
DMW 7 Director Jhoaden Lucero clarified that while the company’s visa consultancy business is legitimate, recruiting workers without DMW authorization is illegal. “Their registered business is for visa consultancy. However, they are offering recruitment and placement activities, which is illegal,” Lucero said.
The closure in Cebu was part of a coordinated nationwide operation against eight branches of Visa to America, including its main office in Pasig City.
Lucero urged the public to be cautious when applying for work abroad. He advised applicants to:
Only apply at DMW-licensed recruitment agencies.
Confirm the agency has approved job orders.
Visit the agency’s registered address.
Always ask for a Bureau of Internal Revenue-registered receipt for any payments. / JDG