With thousands of immigration firms in the United States, finding an immigration lawyer has become a difficult task. Worse yet, there are scams that specifically target those who are not informed enough in the law to know better. Immigration scams are on the rise, so read further to know the warning signs of most scams and how to avoid them.
- They make unrealistic promises.
Experienced immigration attorneys know the chances of some cases being approved over others. However, there are some that make unrealistic promises such as gaining your visa immediately when it can take months. Be sure your attorney is registered with American Immigration Lawyers Association or if other attorneys have heard of the person. - You’re asked pay additional fees.
Some fees are set in stone such as filing the form. If you are asked to pay additional fees, then there is a good chance you’re being scammed. Ask how much it is to file certain documents and check on the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services website. Beware of inconsistencies. - You’re told to purchase plane tickets prior to filing a visa.
There is no such thing as a guaranteed visa. If you haven’t filed for your visa and your “immigration attorney” is telling you to purchase tickets, it’s a red flag. In order to gain a visa, you have to file the proper documents. - There are inconsistencies in their passport or visa.
Often, an “immigration attorney” will show you their passport or visa to prove that they can obtain one for you. This is one of the best ways to spot scams. United States passports or visas have very specific guidelines. The photo is a headshot that must be 2 x2 inches on a white background. If there are any clear alterations, then it’s fake. - You’re asked to pay a certain amount for a visa.
Again, the only fee that is set in stone is the application fee. Go on the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services website and compare prices. While some attorneys might know the chances of your approval, no immigration lawyer will promise you a visa for a certain amount. - They claim to know someone in government.
An “immigration attorney” may state that they know someone with the United States Customs and Border Protection. Even if they did know someone within the department, it is illegal for them to influence your application in any way. If this is mentioned at all, avoid them at all costs. - You’re asked to pay them directly.
One of the biggest warning signs is being asked to pay them directly. In no way can you bypass paying the United States government for any fee associated with filing a document. All payments must be paid to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. NOT DHS or USDHS. - They request to keep your original documents.
When dealing with an immigration attorney or government firm, you have the right to keep your original documents. In most cases, you should keep your original documents to avoid confusion or misplacement. If someone requests to keep your originals, you’re dealing with a scam. Avoid this by bringing copies of any and all documents. If they request the originals, then refuse and never return to them. - They ask you to lie on government forms.
Under no circumstances should you ever lie on any government form. Doing so could impact you greatly. Not only could you receive a denial for your visa, there is a chance you could be barred from ever gaining a United States visa. If anyone tells you to lie on government forms, they’re scamming you. - The offer comes via email, post, phone, website, or face to face.
Under no circumstances should an offer for a visa come to you directly. If you receive an offer through email, post, phone, website, or face to face, you’re dealing with an immigration scam artist. Immigration attorneys do not seek out clients. Clients come to them and request their services. While they might advertise, they never directly approach people stating that they can assist them.
