An alleged migration visa scam that cost victims almost $800,000 has resulted in a 52-year old Queensland man being charged with more than 20 fraud offences.
As the director of two companies, it will be alleged he targeted migrant visa holders and offered to find them sponsored jobs as a pathway to permanent residency.
A total of 23 victims have made complaints and police believe the man charged fees of between $25,000 and $45,000 each for services he did not deliver.
Investigations suggest the jobs did not exist as advertised, if at all, and Detective Acting Inspector Adam Bennett said it will be alleged the man falsified documents and operated from a 'professional city office' in an attempt to appear legitimate.
"When it comes to financial and legal matters, it is important to take a step back and seek independent advice, with information on migration and registered migration agents available on the Australian Border Force website," he said.
The man was arrested February 17 in Sydney after Queensland Police, with assistance from NSW Police, executed a search warrant.
Electronic devices and documentation were seized during the search.
He is due to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday afternoon.
