Currentness update: The official legislation database now shows the Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Prevention and Suppression Ordinance, 2026, which repeals the 2012 Act in its custody provision. Earlier references to the 2012 Act alone are therefore unsafe for a current article. Overseas-employment complaints also involve BMET and the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.
Immediate safety and evidence steps
| Risk | Action | Official route to check |
|---|---|---|
| Unlicensed or fake agent | Check the agency and licence status before paying or surrendering a passport. | BMET/OEP agency database |
| Fake visa or job | Verify through the official visa/employment channel and preserve the offer. | Ministry portal and services |
| Money or document fraud | Preserve receipts, bank records, messages, passport copies and witness details. | BMET complaint and police/lawyer advice. |
| Trafficking or smuggling | Prioritise safety and report to law enforcement; do not confront a suspected trafficker. | 2026 Ordinance and local authorities. |
The 2026 Ordinance includes offences involving trafficking, migrant smuggling, document misuse and advertising. The legal classification depends on conduct and evidence. A recruiting-agent dispute under overseas-employment law is not automatically the same as a trafficking prosecution.
Complaint file
- Chronology with names, dates and locations.
- Agency licence number and advertisements.
- Passport, visa, contract and medical/travel documents.
- Payment proof and communications.
- Any threat, confinement or forced-labour evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can an agency be checked?
Use the official BMET/OEP agency listing and verify the status on the day of engagement.
Should a worker pay cash?
Do not pay an unverified agent; preserve any demand and obtain an official receipt where a lawful payment is made.
What changed in 2026?
The official database lists a 2026 Ordinance that repeals and re-enacts the former trafficking framework and also addresses migrant smuggling.
Can BMET receive complaints?
BMET publishes a complaint form against recruiting agents; use the current form and preserve proof of submission.
What if someone is in immediate danger?
Contact local emergency services or law enforcement and seek safe shelter and legal assistance.
Which sources were checked?
2026 Ordinance, BMET complaint form and the Ministry service portal.
Legal information only. Safety and urgent criminal matters require immediate professional assistance.