Immigration-related scams are a common issue affecting individuals seeking to regularize their status in the U.S. Scammers take advantage of immigrants’ lack of knowledge and urgency, offering fake services, stealing money, or even committing fraud that can jeopardize your immigration status.
🔍 Main Types of Scams
1️⃣ Fake Lawyers or Notaries
Some individuals pose as lawyers or «notary publics» and promise to manage visas, work permits, or residency. In the U.S., a «notary» is NOT a lawyer and cannot provide legal advice.
2️⃣ Fake Calls or Emails from USCIS or ICE
Scammers impersonate immigration officials and demand immediate payments to avoid deportation or delays in processing. The government will never ask for money over the phone or email.
3️⃣ Fake Lotteries and Visas
Some scams promise “guaranteed visas” or priority access to processing in exchange for a fee. There are no shortcuts to legal immigration processes.
4️⃣ Fake Websites
Some websites mimic the official USCIS site and charge fees for forms that are free. Always verify that the website ends in .gov.
5️⃣ Refugee or Asylum Fraud
Some fake organizations charge for advice on asylum or refugee processes without legal authorization.
🚨 Warning Signs of a Potential Scam
🔴 They guarantee a positive outcome regardless of your case.
🔴 They ask for payments in cash, wire transfers, or money orders.
🔴 They pressure you to make quick decisions without time to verify.
🔴 They use misleading advertising with phrases like «We fix papers quickly» or «We have immigration connections.»
🔴 They have no physical office or legal registration.
📄 How to Avoid Being a Scam Victim
✅ Always verify that the immigration lawyer is authorized by the State Bar or the BIA (Board of Immigration Appeals).
✅ Only use official sources like USCIS.gov for information and forms.
✅ Never pay fees upfront without receiving official documentation.
✅ Be wary of «notaries» offering legal advice if they are not certified.
✅ Report any fraudulent attempts to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) or USCIS.
📊 Differences Between a Notary and an Immigration Lawyer
| Feature | U.S. Notary ❌ | Immigration Lawyer ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Can give legal advice | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Can submit immigration documents | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Must be certified | ✅ Yes, but only for notarizing documents | ✅ Yes, must be registered with the Bar |
| Can represent you before USCIS or Court | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
🔎 What to Do If You Were a Victim of a Scam
🔹 Report the fraud to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) or the DHS Inspector General’s office.
🔹 Contact an immigration legal assistance organization to evaluate your case.
🔹 If you made a payment, keep all receipts and evidence to report it.
🔹 Never sign documents without fully understanding them and seek reliable legal advice.
