Alert on new frauds in immigration applications and processes 2024-08-01 19:43:09

USCIS has warned applicants of new scams, which will increase in the coming days when the agency will not be accepting new applications.

There has been a lot of information recently about a new immigration process for spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.

Scammers are also on the lookout for these developments and may try to trick applicants by offering to help them apply early for a fee. However, these promises are false. Here’s how to check your eligibility and avoid falling victim to immigration scams.

The first thing you should know is that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not accept applications until August 19, 2024. Its website offers the most up-to-date official information on eligibility and the process that could help some spouses and stepchildren of US citizens apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country. When changes like these are announced, scammers take advantage to create fake websites and non-existent immigration programs. To avoid falling for these scams, learn to spot the signs of fraud:

• There is no special or early access. Only scammers will say there is. Stay informed with the latest updates at uscis.gov/KeepingFamiliesTogether.
• Seek qualified immigration help. Specialized attorneys and accredited representatives are trained and authorized to assist with immigration procedures and advice. Do not use unauthorized immigration consultants or notaries for legal or immigration help.
• Never pay for forms or sign blank documents. Official immigration forms are free. If someone tries to charge you for them or asks you to sign blank forms, you are dealing with a scammer.
• Spread the word. Even if this process doesn’t apply to you, share this information with people in immigrant communities.

Check ftc.gov/languages ​​for more tips in multiple languages. Suspect an immigration scam? Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or in Spanish at ReporteFraude.ftc.gov. To report in other languages, call [phone] and press 3 to speak to an interpreter in your preferred language.