How To Avoid Immigration Scams

When dealing with immigration matters, it’s important to get trustworthy help from professionals. Getting help from the wrong person can harm your case and even put you at risk of deportation. 

This article explains common immigration scams, how to protect yourself, and where to report fraud.

Watch out for notaries offering immigration services

Never take legal advice from someone who is not licensed or qualified. In Oregon, notarios or notary publics are not licensed to give legal advice. If you let someone who is not authorized fill out or file your immigration paperwork, it can harm your case and may even lead to deportation. 

In many Spanish-speaking countries, a notary public, or notario, is allowed to practice law. But in the United States, a notary public cannot give legal advice, file immigration paperwork for you, or represent you in court.

Common immigration scams

• Guaranteeing fast visas or green cards: Be cautious of anyone who promises quick or guaranteed results.
• Charging for free forms: Immigration forms are free to download from the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
• Signing blank forms: Never sign forms that are blank or that you don’t understand.
• False legal advice: Only licensed lawyers or accredited representatives can give legal advice.

How to protect yourself

• Verify credentials: Always ask for proof that someone is a licensed lawyer or accredited representative. 
• Get everything in writing: Ask for receipts, copies of your contract (sometimes called your retainer agreement), and any paperwork they prepare for you.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, get a second opinion from a different qualified lawyer or accredited representative. 

Go here to learn more about finding trustworthy immigration legal help. 

Reporting immigration fraud

If you think you’ve been a victim of immigration fraud, there are steps you can take:

1. Report fraud to the Oregon Department of Justice: You can file a complaint online here or call 1-877-877-9392.
2. Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission: File a complaint online here.
3. Talk to a lawyer: If you've been a victim of immigration fraud, including receiving immigration legal services from a notary public, you should seek the help of a lawyer immediately. Reach out to trusted legal organizations for advice and support. Search for low-cost and free legal services here.  

Continue Reading: