Immigration matters can be complex and there's a lot at stake - miss a step and your plans to visit, seek permanent residency or become a United States citizen could be jeopardized. Use this checklist to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

  • Do not sign blank applications, petitions or other papers
  • Do not sign documents that you don't understand
  • Do not sign documents that contain false statements or inaccurate information
  • Do not make payments to an accredited representative without getting a receipt
  • Do not pay expensive fees to non-attorneys
  • Do obtain copies of all documents prepared or submitted by you
  • Do verify an attorney's or accredited representative's eligibility to represent you
  • Do report any accredited representative's unlawful activity to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), State Bar Associations and/or State Offices of Attorneys General