Avoid immigration scams

Scammers often target people looking for help with their immigration situation, including legal help. Protect yourself by knowing what to watch for. Get the facts, check before you act, and use trusted sources to stay safe.

Check credentials

Only work with a licensed attorney or Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representative on your immigration matter.

In the United States, notaries are not lawyers. They cannot give legal advice or file immigration paperwork.

You can:

Other states

To see credentials for lawyers helping people detained outside Minnesota, check local bar associations. Associations from common other states include:

Be cautious

To protect yourself from scams:

  • Use a licensed attorney or accredited representative
  • Get a receipt
  • Get copies of the forms prepared for you
  • Check official sources like the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website
  • Never send original documents with your application unless USCIS asks

Red flags

Red flags for scams can include:

  • Promises to speed up your case
  • Requests for payment by gift cards, wire transfer, or cash
  • Pressure to sign blank or incorrect forms or give away original documents
  • Unsolicited contacts from out of state

Resources

Get information from trusted sources

Shareable guides

Report scams

In Minnesota

Outside Minnesota

If the scammer lives outside of Minnesota, report to the Federal Trade Commission.

Contact us

Immigrant and Refugee Affairs

Neighborhood & Community Relations

Email Immigrant and Refugee Affairs

Phone

612-673-3129

Office hours

8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Monday – Friday

See list of City holidays