Key takeaways
- Check that the company exists in the official company register.
- Read reviews on sites like kununu and Glassdoor, but look for patterns, not single reviews.
- For the Netherlands, check the IND register of recognised sponsors.
- Walk away if anyone asks you for money.
Ten minutes of research can save you from a bad employer, or from a scam. It also gives you material for the cover letter and the interview.
What to check
- Official registers. In Germany, the company register; in the Netherlands, the Chamber of Commerce and the IND sponsor register.
- The company website and career page. Real jobs appear on the company's own site.
- Reviews. kununu is widely used in German speaking countries; Glassdoor is common for international firms.
- LinkedIn. Do employees exist? How long do they stay? Who is the hiring manager?
- News. Search for recent news on layoffs, funding or growth.
Red flags
- Any request for money for a job, visa or "processing".
- Email addresses from free providers instead of the company domain.
- Offers without an interview.
- Pressure to decide within hours.
Common questions
Are review sites reliable?
They show patterns. One bad review means little; many similar complaints mean a lot.
Can I ask the employer about sponsorship history?
Yes, politely. Many companies are happy to explain how they hire internationally.
How do I check a recruitment agency?
Check its company registration, website and reviews. Real agencies are paid by employers, not candidates.
Free PDF: Job scam checklistDownload it free in under a minute, or send
SCAM to @swapnil_in_germany on Instagram.
Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)
I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.