Immigrating to the United States is a life-changing journey, but unfortunately, many individuals fall victim to immigration scams along the way. Scammers often prey on vulnerable immigrants by promising quick solutions, fake legal services, or fraudulent documentation. At ISA Lawyers, we are committed to helping you navigate immigration safely and legally. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family from immigration scams.
Common Immigration Scams
- Notario Fraud – In many Latin American countries, a “notario” is a legal professional, but in the U.S., notaries are not authorized to give legal immigration advice. Beware of notarios posing as attorneys.
- Fake Immigration Lawyers – Some scammers claim to be attorneys but lack the proper accreditation. Always verify credentials through the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) or your state bar association.
- Phone & Email Scams – Fraudsters may impersonate USCIS officials and demand payment or personal information over the phone or via email. USCIS will never ask for money this way.
- Guaranteed Visas & Green Cards – No one can guarantee visa or Green Card approval. Be cautious of individuals or services that make unrealistic promises.
- Paying for Immigration Forms – All official immigration forms are available for free on the USCIS website. If someone charges you for blank forms, it is likely a scam.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify Credentials: Work with licensed immigration attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
- Use Official USCIS Resources: Only trust information from uscis.gov or official government sources.
- Never Pay Through Unofficial Channels: Payments to USCIS should always be made through the official website or designated locations.
- Get Everything in Writing: Ensure all agreements, fees, and services are documented in a contract.
- Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Promises: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of an immigration scam, take action immediately:
- Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- File a Complaint with USCIS through their Avoid Scams Initiative.
- Consult a Trusted Immigration Attorney to assess your legal options.
ISA Lawyers: Your Trusted Immigration Advocates
With expertise in business and family immigration law, ISA Lawyers is dedicated to protecting immigrants from fraud and guiding them through the legal process. We speak English, Spanish, and Creole, ensuring clear communication for all clients.
Have questions or need legal immigration assistance? Contact ISA Lawyers today for trusted support!
