Living in the United States is the dream of many, and even for those already on American soil, obtaining a Green Card is essential for legal residence in the country. Behind this entire process is the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), the government agency that oversees the entire immigration and foreign nationals’ stay process.
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 human approach, prioritizing family reunification, admitting immigrants with valuable skills for the U.S. economy, protecting refugees, and promoting diversity.
Violating federal immigration laws can result in disastrous and even irreversible consequences. Even those who have obtained a Green Card can render it ineligible or canceled if they violate any immigration law.
However, there is a type of fraud or scam involving immigration legal services targeting vulnerable, ill-informed, 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 American state who offer services to assist in the process.
As a result, many end up complicating their processes by relying on “legal” assistance from unqualified and inexperienced individuals to handle comprehensive processes such as work visas.
Ingrid D. McConville, a practicing immigration lawyer for 28 years, states that she is frequently approached by clients who have fallen victim to scams, paying a fortune for a service that is either never completed or done incorrectly. Sometimes, fixing the situation takes more time, money, and perseverance than expected and can still end up frustrating the hopes of an entire family.
In addition to fraudulent marriages, one of the most commonly used scams is related to 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 hiring them in low-skilled positions.
There are various legal paths leading to residency in the United States or a Green Card, with more than 180 visas created by the Immigration department – USCIS – that can fit the applicant’s conditions. However, since it is not an easy process, the best way to ensure success is to hire a good, accredited lawyer with extensive experience.
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- 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 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, handling both business and family immigration matters. She has assisted companies and individuals in obtaining visas and permanent residency 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.