| Official source link |
Is the portal linked from a ministry/immigration website? |
Only advertised via ads or third-party blogs |
Start from official government pages whenever possible |
| Domain consistency |
Same domain across form, upload, and payment |
Redirect to unrelated domains at checkout |
Do not proceed if the checkout domain is suspicious |
| Policy transparency |
Clear requirements, fees, and processing details |
Vague information, pressure tactics, “guaranteed approval” claims |
Use portals that clearly state rules and responsibilities |
| Receipts & references |
Confirmation number, payment receipt, downloadable proof |
No receipt, no reference, no confirmation page |
Save PDF approval + screenshots + transaction ID |
| Data handling |
Secure upload and clear privacy terms |
Requests for excessive or unrelated data |
Upload only required documents; protect account credentials |