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ImmigrationINFO: Immigration News For Our Community
Beware of Immigration Service Providers who are not Lawyers…
By Attorney Gail S. Seeram,
[email protected]
Beware of immigration service providers. Many of these unauthorized practitioners mean well, however, all 
too many of them are out to rip you off. This is against the law and may be considered an immigration service scam. Many providers refer to themselves as “Certified Immigration Specialist” or “Certified Immigration Provider” but there is no educational program in the U.S. to certify anyone as an immigration specialist or provider.
Under the U.S. laws, only an immigration lawyer, I repeat, lawyer, can give you legal advice on an immigration matter, explain immigration options and communicate on your behalf to the immigration agencies. Also, only an immigration lawyer, I repeat, lawyer, can represent you in matters pending before the U.S. Embassy, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Custom and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement, the Executive Office for Immigration Review (Immigration Court), and the Board of Immigration Appeals. In limited circumstances, representatives accredited by the Department of Homeland Security can assist individuals with preparation of petitions.
There have been many instances of immigration service providers, who are not lawyers, charging high fees for services they are not authorized to perform. In many cases, using a service provider instead of a lawyer leads to delay in application/petition processing, high unnecessary costs, and possible denial. It is advantageous to use a lawyer since the lawyer is well trained in the law and clients have legal recourse against lawyers who are licensed by the bar.
Further, beware of on-line websites that claim they can prepare and submit immigration forms for you and guarantee a fast result. Note, all immigration forms are accessible on the government website at www.uscis.gov.
10 TIPS TO AVOID IMMIGRATION SCAMS:
1. Before you sign an immigration form make sure that you understand it and that the information on it is true and accurate.
2. Never sign blank forms.
3. Make sure you get a receipt for any payment you make to a lawyer or especially an “immigration service provider”.
4. Keep copies of all forms and other documents that you file.
5. You will receive a receipt after your application is filed. Make sure to keep the receipt for your records.
6. If you are unsure whether your “immigration service provider” is giving trustworthy advice, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion. When doing so, always work with a licensed lawyer or accredited representative.
7. Make sure the person who prepares your petition or form signs in the designated area.
8. Pay filing fees with a check so that a cancelled check serves as an additional receipt.
9. Report any immigration scams to a lawyer’s general office or nearest U.S. Embassy.
10. Notarios or notaries are not authorized to provide legal services relating to immigration.
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