Job Discussion Forums

garethlochhead · Joined: 15 Dec 2008 Posts: 1

I'm concerned about a job I was recently offered in Portugal. It was at the International English School in Lisbon, and offered a sensibly attractive package of flight, accommodation, visa sponsorship and 1300 Euros per month after tax. The interview was done via email. I was then sent photos, details and a contract, and asked for 1000 Euros as security, with the contract promising that this would be refunded.

Is it ever reasonable of a school to ask for this? An obvious red flag, I asked them to call me but wasn't really reassured when they did. Does anyone else know about them? The Portugese person I spoke to was Dr Renato Carla, and the finance officer was English and based in Spain. Cheers, Gareth.

jpvanderwerf2001 · Joined: 02 Oct 2003 Posts: 1117 Location: New York

I would NEVER give up cash to take a job. The only cost I would consider incurring would be a plane ticket (and possibly initial visa costs).

So, no, I wouldn't suggest sending the cash.

Good luck!

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

I know of one reputable school in Japan that does that. Totally honest about returning the money when the teacher arrives, too. They are just trying to cover themselves because they've had too many teachers get the job, then a visa, but never show up for work.

Whether this is the case for you, I don't know. Ask people in Portugal.

Marcoregano · Joined: 19 May 2003 Posts: 872 Location: Hong Kong

Definitely a scam. This sort of rip off is quite common in Portugal and Spain. You will find similar posts - and advice - on those forums.

johnslat · Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2008 4:18 am Post subject:

Dear garethlochhead,

When you have to ask yourself (or others) the question, "Is this a scam," the answer's going to be yes 99.99999999999% of the time.
Regards,
John

parrothead · Joined: 02 Nov 2003 Posts: 342 Location: Japan

99% probability this is a scam. I wouldn't risk losing 1000 euros over a 1% chance that it is a legit company. Never, never, never send money to a company that hires you based on an email hiring process.

TheLongWayHome · Joined: 07 Jun 2006 Posts: 1016 Location: San Luis Piojosi

Might as well send me the money.

yankeechemist · Joined: 27 Apr 2007 Posts: 50

Definitely a scam.

nick s · Joined: 21 Dec 2008 Posts: 3

Also got offered this job.
Did you get a phone number for Renata Carla? Seriously, if you did, then do something about tracking her down!
Bet it was a private number withheld though.