Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams:
What You Need to Know
When seeking help with your immigration case, it’s important to stay alert and recognize potential scams and fraudulent practices that could negatively impact your case or result in unnecessary expenses. Unfortunately, immigration fraud is widespread, and many people in our community fall prey to individuals who falsely claim to offer assistance.
Know Your Rights and Protections:
Only licensed attorneys and Department of Justice accredited representatives are authorized to practice before federal immigration authorities, provide immigration legal advice and represent you in USCIS matters.
What to Watch Out For:
Many people mistakenly turn to Notary Public Offices or individuals referred to as “Notarios.” However, notarios are often not legally authorized to provide immigration advice or services, and relying on their assistance could put your immigration status at risk.
To avoid falling victim to scams, keep these important tips in mind:
- Always request a written contract. If someone refuses to provide this, it’s a red flag.
- Never pay for blank immigration forms. Legitimate professionals will assist you with completing forms, but they won’t charge you for forms you haven’t filled out yet.
- Never allow anyone to ask you to lie on an immigration form. Providing false information can have serious consequences for your case and any future applications you make.
- Do not sign blank documents. Always read and understand what you’re signing before you agree to anything.
By staying informed and collaborating with trusted professionals, you can protect yourself from immigration fraud. Be sure to seek assistance from reliable legal service providers who can answer your questions and provide the resources you need to navigate the immigration process safely and effectively.
