Scams that target newcomers to the US
In the US, a “notario” or notary public can’t give legal advice or file immigration cases; only licensed attorneys or accredited representatives can. Government immigration forms are free to download, and fees go to the government. Agencies don’t demand payment by phone or threaten deportation for gift cards. Real jobs don’t charge you to be hired. The diversity visa lottery is free and only on the official State Department site. Report scams to the FTC in English or Spanish.
Your checklist
- Know a notario is not a lawyer here
- Know government forms are free
- Know agencies don’t demand payment by phone
- Know real jobs don’t charge to hire
- Know the visa lottery is free and official only
- Report scams to the FTC
Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.
Notario fraud
In many countries, a notario is a lawyer. In the US, a notary public only witnesses signatures and can’t give legal advice or represent you. For immigration help, use a licensed attorney or a representative accredited by the Department of Justice at a recognized organization.
Forms are free
Official immigration forms can be downloaded free from the government’s website. Filing fees are paid to the government, following official instructions.
Fake government calls
Callers claiming to be immigration, police or tax officials who threaten arrest or deportation unless you pay by gift card, wire transfer or crypto are scammers. Hang up.
Job scams
Real employers don’t charge fees to hire you. Be wary of jobs that ask for your bank details up front, or pay you to reship packages or move money; you could be pulled into crime.
Other scams
- Diversity visa lottery “winners” notified by email: the lottery is free and only run on the State Department’s official site.
- Rentals you can’t see in person.
- Fake debt collectors or tax agents.
- Online sweethearts who ask for money.
Report it
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (or ReporteFraude.ftc.gov in Spanish) and to your state attorney general. Reporting is free.
Official sources, and where to look
- USCIS: avoid immigration scamsuscis.gov
- DOJ: recognized organizations and accredited representativesjustice.gov
- ReporteFraude.ftc.gov (Spanish)reportefraude.ftc.gov
- State Department: diversity visa programtravel.state.gov
DOJ accredited representative near meUSCIS forms free download
Common questions
How do I find real immigration legal help?
Look for a licensed attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative at a recognized organization. Many nonprofits offer free or low-cost help. More ›
Will reporting a scam affect my immigration status?
Reporting fraud to the FTC is meant to protect consumers. If you’re worried, ask a trusted legal aid organization first. More ›
What is notario fraud?
When someone calling themselves a “notario” offers immigration legal help they aren’t allowed to give. In the US, notaries can’t give legal advice. More ›
Who can legally help with my immigration case?
A licensed attorney or a representative accredited by the Department of Justice working at a recognized organization. More ›
Are USCIS forms free?
Yes, the forms are free to download from the official website. Filing fees are paid to the government per the instructions. More ›
Will immigration officials call and demand money?
No. Calls threatening arrest or deportation unless you pay by gift card, wire or crypto are scams. More ›
Find trusted immigration help
Licensed attorneys and accredited representatives only.
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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.