Immigrating to the U.S. isn’t easy. The process is full of rules, paperwork, and long wait times. Sadly, this also makes immigrants prime targets for scammers. From fake job offers to false promises of a Green Card, immigration scams are everywhere in 2025.
The good news is you can protect yourself. Let’s talk about how to spot immigration fraud, what scams look like, and where to find legitimate immigration help.
Government Impersonators
Scammers often pretend to be USCIS officers. They might reach out by phone, email, or even social media. Don’t fall for it.
USCIS will never message you on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram. Official communication comes through mail or your secure USCIS online account.
False “Supporter” Offers
Some people may contact you online, offering to be your “supporter” in exchange for money, favors, or even marriage. This is fraud. A real supporter files Form I-134A and provides financial support without expecting repayment or personal services.
Work Offer Scams
Got a random job offer by email? Be careful. Many fake companies promise U.S. jobs but ask you to pay a fee up front. That’s a scam. Even if the offer is genuine, you can’t legally work without a Green Card, EAD, or a valid work visa.
Fake Websites, Social Media & Emails
Not every random website claiming to be USCIS is real. Carefully check the web address.
- Real USCIS sites end in .gov
- Fake sites often end in .com, .net, .org, .info
If you get an email asking you to download attachments, wire money, or “speed up” your case, it’s almost always a scam.
Payment Scams
If someone asks you to pay through Western Union, PayPal, Venmo, MoneyGram, or gift cards, it’s a scam.
USCIS payments are only made through your official myUSCIS account or Pay.gov.
Notarios
A notario público (notary public) is a licensed attorney in Latin America. But, in the U.S., a notary public cannot give immigration legal advice. If you’ve been tricked by one, you’re not alone. Many immigrants get caught in this trap.
If you need help, you can do the following:
- Go to ImmigrationQuestion.com and connect with licensed immigration attorneys, or
- Contact accredited representatives from the Department of Justice’s list of accredited immigration legal services.
If you’ve dealt with a fake attorney, don’t stay silent. Report fraudulent notario USA cases immediately to protect yourself and others.
Scams Targeting Students
International students also face scams. Fraudsters often pretend to be USCIS and demand money. They can also offer admission to fake colleges not certified by SEVP.
Always confirm your school is SEVP-certified before paying fees or applying for a visa.
Paying to Speed Up Your Case
Some businesses claim they have special government connections to speed up your case. Others guarantee you’ll get a visa if you pay extra. These are lies.
Only USCIS decides if a case qualifies for expedited processing, except for Forms I-129 and I-140 for employment-based petitions, which have premium processing times.
How to Protect Yourself
Here’s how to stay safe from immigration scams in 2025:
- Double-check every website and email.
- Don’t share personal info with strangers online.
- Never pay someone outside of official government channels.
- Ask for proof that the person helping you is an attorney or DOJ-accredited representative.
And if something feels off? Trust your instincts.
Report Immigration Fraud
If you suspect a scam, don’t ignore it. Reporting fraud won’t hurt your own immigration case.
Forward suspicious emails to the USCIS Webmaster for verification. You can also contact your local authorities.
Stay Safe With ImmigrationQuestion.com
Immigration scammers are getting smarter in 2025, but so are your tools to fight back. Knowing how to spot immigration fraud is the first step. The second is choosing legitimate immigration help vs scam services that only want your money.
ImmigrationQuestion.com is your go-to if you don’t want to worry about falling for immigration scams. Our attorney network comprises licensed and verified professionals with experience in successfully handling immigration cases.
Go to ImmigrationQuestion.com now to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some common immigration scams in 2025?
The popular scams include fake job offers, government impersonators, fraudulent notarios, fake websites, and promises to speed up your case for money.
- How do I catch immigration fraud?
There will be signs. Look for red flags like requests for payment through gift cards or wire transfers, emails that don’t end in .gov, promises of guaranteed visas, or anyone who refuses to show proof that they’re an attorney or accredited representative.
- Can I report a fraudulent notario in the USA?
Yes. You can report fraudulent notario USA cases to local authorities, state bar associations, or USCIS. Reporting won’t harm your immigration case.
- What’s the difference between legitimate immigration help vs scam services?
Legitimate help comes only from licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives. Scam services are often offered by unlicensed individuals, fake consultants, or notarios who aren’t legally allowed to give immigration advice.
- Where can I find verified immigration legal services?
Check out ImmigrationQuestion.com’s attorney directory to find a list of accredited immigration attorneys who can help you.
