Immigration law is confusing, and many people researching immigration options are in a hurry to find the best ones on a limited budget. Unfortunately, some individuals know this and take advantage of it, preying on people who simply want a better life for themselves and their family members. Whether you’re worried you’ve been the target of a scam or are about to begin your immigration case and want to know which red flags to look for, getting the facts first is a good idea. Researching to find the most qualified immigration lawyer can also help you get the outcome you want for your case.
What Are Common Immigration Scams in the U.S.?
You can reduce the chance of being scammed by being aware of the most common ones in this country. One example is a fake immigration website posing as a government site. With this scam, the website might appear in your search results or email inbox. It might look like a legitimate government site, but it’s run by scammers.
If you provide your private information by filling out any forms on the site, the scammers could sell it or use it for identity theft. They might also charge you money for forms that you can get for free from the USCIS. These scams aren’t unique to websites, as they can get the same results through phone calls.
Some immigrants are targeted by diversity lottery scams. With this scam, you might get a phone call from someone claiming to be affiliated with the government’s Diversity Visa Program. They might claim you must pay to join the lottery, or that you can improve your chances of being picked by sending payment. If you get this type of phone call, hang up immediately, because it’s a common immigration scam.
There are several similar scams targeting refugees, as well as immigrants hoping for a student visa, employment visa, temporary protected status, and other immigration options. If you’re unsure if the person you’re talking to is trying to scam you, contact a trusted immigration law firm for help.
What Red Flags Should You Look for?
It’s essential to remember that if an immigration resource seems too good to be true, it is. For this reason, phone calls that come out of the blue and request money in exchange for guaranteed immigration help are scams. No one can guarantee that the USCIS will approve your application, and no amount of money will help.
So, if someone calls you and states they’re from the government or an immigration agency, do not provide them with private information or payment until you have researched them and confirmed they are who they say they are. As far as avoiding scam websites, government agencies should have an online presence with a .gov website. If you don’t see this, do not provide information or payment on the website.
Additionally, while the Diversity Visa Program is a real program offered by the government, it is free to sign up, and it’s not possible to pay to improve your odds. The winners are picked at random. If you win, you won’t get a phone call with the results, as you’re expected to check the program’s government website to see if you won.
How Can You Get Legitimate Help for Your Immigration Case?
Now that you know what red flags to avoid, you might wonder how to find legitimate assistance with your immigration needs. You can start by asking friends and family if they can recommend a qualified attorney. You can also search for lawyers in your area, making sure to check their reviews on numerous sites to ensure they have a good reputation among clients.
Trusted immigration lawyers should have a website listing their qualifications, such as where they are licensed to practice law. You should check your state’s bar association to ensure the credentials on their site are accurate. At that point, you should request an initial consultation, during which you can ask about their practice areas and prior case outcomes while ensuring you feel comfortable with the legal team.
If you’re searching for an immigration attorney you can trust with your case, contact The Chidolue Law Firm. Call 407-995-6567 to schedule a free case evaluation with our team today.
