Immigration Help in the United States: Check Credentials and Avoid Scams
Someone who speaks your language or promises a fast result is not automatically qualified to advise on an immigration case. USCIS says you may file forms yourself. If you choose professional help, check the person’s authority before handing over money or documents. This is general information, not advice on which immigration benefit to seek.
1. Check the person, not just the office sign
USCIS distinguishes attorneys from accredited representatives working for organizations recognized by the Department of Justice. Check an attorney’s current eligibility with the state agency that regulates lawyers. For an accredited representative, use the official DOJ rosters linked from USCIS and verify the organization too. Certain supervised law students and graduates may also help under the rules USCIS describes. A U.S. notary public is not authorized to give immigration legal advice simply because they are a notary; do not confuse the title with a lawyer’s credentials in another country.
Official sources: https://www.uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/legal-services
2. Understand what representation means
USCIS says an authorized representative can advise on forms and evidence, explain options, help complete forms and communicate about your case. Someone outside the authorized categories may provide limited form-filling help under applicable rules, but cannot give legal advice or represent you. An attorney or accredited representative generally files Form G-28 for representation before USCIS, and you must sign it to consent. The USCIS legal-services page links to low-cost or free providers and disciplinary lists; availability is not a guarantee that a provider will take your case.
Official sources: https://www.uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/legal-services
3. Treat promises and unusual payments as warning signs
USCIS warns about people who claim special government connections or guarantee a faster visa, Green Card or work permit for a fee. It says it will not ask you to transfer money to an individual or pay a person by phone or email, and it does not accept gift cards, Western Union, MoneyGram, PayPal or Venmo for immigration fees. Check the official instructions for your exact form and its current payment method. A government-looking logo or familiar sender name does not establish that a message is genuine.
Official sources: https://www.uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/common-scams · https://www.uscis.gov/avoid-scams
4. Keep control of every form and receipt
USCIS advises keeping receipts, copies of notices and letters, and copies of prepared forms. Do not sign a blank or incomplete form, or one containing false information. USCIS forms themselves are free; government filing fees and an adviser’s service fee are separate matters. If you suspect immigration fraud, the USCIS scams page explains reporting options, including the Federal Trade Commission and state consumer protection offices. For a case-specific legal problem, seek a qualified representative rather than relying on a stranger’s promise to fix it.
Official sources: https://www.uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/common-scams · https://www.uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/legal-services
Sources last reviewed: October 29, 2026. Requirements vary by provider, program and location; check the responsible official agency for your circumstances.
