If you're planning to move or are considering relocating, there's an important warning for homebuyers about three scams that could cost you thousands of pounds. Experts in international health insurance at William Russell have reported that Brits are increasingly falling prey to fraudulent insurance policies, non-existent job offers, and fake visas.

As more people pursue the dream of a better life overseas, this growing interest in living abroad is fueling a rise in relocation scams aimed at expats. Inez Cooper, Managing Director at William Russell, said: "Relocating abroad already comes with its own set of logistical and emotional challenges, and falling victim to a scam can have devastating financial and personal consequences.

"It’s crucial for people to stay vigilant, seek out regulated and reputable service providers, and never rush into agreements without thorough due diligence. The best advice is to lean on the wealth of trusted resources available online when navigating the complexities of moving overseas.

"A little extra caution at the start of your journey can save significant stress and financial loss later on.”

Three scams to look out for

1. Bogus job offers

These scams frequently involve fake recruiters or companies promoting high-paying international job opportunities with attractive perks. Victims are typically asked to pay upfront "administration fees" or submit personal documents under the pretense of processing employment paperwork—only to later find out that the job offers were completely fabricated.

Common warning signs include:

• unsolicited job offers without an interview
• requests for personal information
• request for money upfront
• emails sent from generic or unverified domains instead of a company’s official website

They conclude: "Where possible, always verify job offers directly through a company’s official website or via credible professional networks like LinkedIn. Never pay a fee to secure a job abroad and be cautious of any employer unwilling to provide clear, official documentation."

2. Fraudulent insurance policies

These scams involve fraudulent providers selling expats what appear to be genuine health, travel, or life insurance policies at appealingly low prices. Victims typically realize they've been deceived only when they try to make a claim—only to find they have no coverage in critical situations.

Early warning signs that an insurance policy might not be legit include:

• vague or confusing policy wording
• unusually low premiums
• pressure to commit quickly
• lack of verified customer reviews
• lack of evidence of regulatory registration

Insurance experts advise that the safest way to ensure you're properly protected is to buy coverage only from reputable, internationally recognised insurance providers. They strongly recommend verifying the company is licensed by an appropriate financial or insurance regulatory bodies and that you should always request full policy documentation before making any payments.

3. Fake visas

These scams typically feature fake "agencies" that claim they can expedite visa processing or guarantee approval - but the catch is they want an upfront fee. Victims are usually charged in advance for documentation or services that are never delivered. "The best way to avoid this type of scam is to always apply through official government websites or verified consulates. If using a third-party agency, check for legitimate licensing, reviews, and international relocation accreditations", the experts warn.

Common red flags include:

• promises of guaranteed visa approval
• urgent demands for immediate payment
• absence of official accreditation or verifiable contact information