Immigration Fraud Scams in Texas: How to Protect Yourself

Avoiding Immigration Fraud in Texas – A Guide to Protecting Your Rights

The immigration process can be complex and overwhelming, making immigrants vulnerable to fraud. In Texas, scams targeting immigrants are on the rise, often promising quick green cards, work permits, or legal status in exchange for money. Unfortunately, falling victim to these scams can lead to financial loss, deportation, or even permanent bars from legal immigration benefits. This blog explores the most common immigration fraud schemes in Texas and provides practical steps to protect yourself.

Common Immigration Scams in Texas

Immigrants in Texas face various forms of fraud, ranging from notario fraud to fake legal services. Here are some of the most common scams:

1. Notario Fraud

In many Latin American countries, a "notario público" is a licensed legal professional, similar to an attorney. However, in the U.S., a notary public has no legal authority to provide immigration services. Scammers take advantage of this language difference, falsely claiming they can help with immigration cases. They often file incorrect paperwork, miss deadlines, and vanish after taking the victim’s money.

2. Fake Immigration Lawyers

Some individuals pose as licensed immigration attorneys or accredited representatives but lack the necessary credentials. They may charge high fees, give incorrect legal advice, or file fraudulent applications that result in severe consequences, including deportation. Always verify an attorney's credentials through the State Bar of Texas (https://www.texasbar.com/).

3. “Guaranteed Green Card” Scams

No legitimate lawyer or agency can guarantee a green card or visa. Scammers often advertise online or in community centers, claiming to have inside connections with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They may request upfront payments and personal information, leading to financial fraud or identity theft.

4. Fake ICE Calls and Deportation Threats

Some scammers impersonate Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, calling victims and demanding payment to avoid deportation. ICE does not request money over the phone, and any such demand is a scam.

5. Lottery & Diversity Visa Scams

The U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery is a real program, but scammers create fake websites asking for money to enter. The official Diversity Visa Lottery is free and can only be applied for through the U.S. Department of State (https://dvprogram.state.gov/).

How to Protect Yourself from Immigration Fraud

To avoid becoming a victim of immigration scams, take the following steps:

1. Verify Credentials

Always check if the attorney is licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
If working with a non-attorney, ensure they are accredited by the Department of Justice (DOJ) (https://www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-roster-reports).

2. Beware of Unrealistic Promises

No one can guarantee a visa, green card, or asylum approval.
If an offer sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

3. Never Pay in Cash or Over the Phone

Legitimate attorneys provide receipts and written agreements.
Government agencies do not ask for payments via phone calls, gift cards, or wire transfers.

4. Get Your Information from Official Sources

Use the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website (https://www.uscis.gov/) for accurate information.
Beware of unofficial websites that mimic government sites but charge unnecessary fees.

5. Report Fraud

If you suspect immigration fraud, report it immediately to:

Texas Attorney General’s Office: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Fraud Reports: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
USCIS Scams Page: https://www.uscis.gov/avoid-scams

Conclusion – Stay Vigilant and Protect Your Future

Immigrants in Texas must be cautious when seeking legal assistance. By staying informed, verifying credentials, and recognizing warning signs, you can protect yourself from fraud and avoid costly mistakes that may impact your immigration status. If you need legal guidance, consult a trusted and licensed immigration attorney to ensure your case is handled professionally and ethically.