Living in the United States is the dream of many, and even for those already on American soil, obtaining a Green Card is essential to remain in the country legally. Behind this entire process is the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), the government agency that manages the entire immigration and foreigner stay process in the country.
As the most sought-after destination for immigrants, the United States has strict laws aimed at preventing unwanted immigration in the eyes of the authorities. However, at the same time, these laws have a humane approach, prioritizing immigration based on family, work, and protection for refugees. They are based on the principles of family reunification, admission of immigrants with valuable skills for the U.S. economy, refugee protection, and promotion of diversity.
Violating federal immigration laws can result in disastrous and even irreversible consequences. Even those who have obtained the Green Card can render it ineligible or canceled if they violate any immigration laws.
There is, however, a type of fraud or scam involving immigration legal services that target vulnerable, misinformed, and often naive immigrants. False promises from individuals presenting themselves as authorities on the subject are more common than one might think. Even in Brazil, there are lawyers not licensed in any U.S. state who still offer services to assist with the process.
In this way, many end up complicating their processes by relying on the “legal” advice of unqualified and inexperienced individuals to handle a comprehensive process like the work visa process, for example.
Ingrid D. McConville, an immigration lawyer with 28 years of experience, says she is constantly approached by clients who fall victim to scams, paying a fortune for a service that is never completed or done incorrectly. Sometimes, fixing the situation takes more time, money, and perseverance than expected and can ultimately disappoint the hopes of an entire family.
In addition to fraudulent marriages, one of the most common scams involves work-based visas, where foreigners are employed by American companies. However, scammers facilitate the process between American and foreign companies, charging a high price for them to be hired for low-skilled positions.
The legal pathways to residence in the United States or obtaining a Green Card are numerous, meaning there are more than 180 visas, all created by the Immigration Department – USCIS – that may suit the applicant’s conditions. However, as it is not an easy process, the best way to ensure this achievement is to hire a good, accredited lawyer with extensive experience. If you want to learn more about the subject, visit https://instagram.com/dmvisalaw?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Ingrid Domingues-McConville founded DM VISA LAW – Domingues McConville, P.A. in 1995. She has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1995 and a member of the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida. Ingrid earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and her law degree from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in Cleveland, Ohio. With 28 years of experience in Immigration Law, Ingrid has represented clients throughout the United States and worldwide, addressing both business and family immigration matters. She has helped companies and individuals obtain visas and permanent residence in the United States. Ingrid plays a significant leadership role in the Brazilian community in South Florida and across the United States, providing much-needed legal guidance and advice.