### Alert on Work Visa Frauds in the US by Fake Immigration Lawyers
In recent years, there has been a troubling rise in work visa frauds in the United States facilitated through social media, as highlighted by Paola Robles, president of the Inter-American Association of Lawyers specializing in immigration law (Inila). These scams have become one of the most prevalent issues in the realm of U.S. immigration paperwork, with many individuals being duped by people posing as immigration lawyers.
Robles emphasized the difficulty of gauging the full extent of these fraudulent activities. “The problem is the sheer number of scams, making them hard to identify. Our main course of action [as lawyers] is to inform the public via social media that a work visa process doesn’t work that way. You don’t just pay for your visa and then get a job in the U.S.,” she explained.
For those seeking a work visa, it’s necessary to have an employer in the United States who will handle the processing. “Everything related to the work visa must be paid by the employer in the U.S. You might be told to pay for your visa upfront, but it will be reimbursed to you later, and the payment should be made directly to the Consulate,” Robles pointed out.
She also noted that scammers often ask for upfront payments for visas, send fake documents, or fail to deliver them entirely. To avoid falling victim to these schemes, Robles advised verifying the payment receipt and account number to ensure they are official, as there have been instances of falsified payment orders.
Additionally, Robles warned that some fraudsters steal the identity and personal data of people who already have work permits in the U.S. To safeguard against this, individuals should avoid sharing their Social Security number, only providing it to the lawyer responsible for their visa renewal and their current employer.
To further protect against fraud, individuals undergoing the visa process can reach out to the Fraud Prevention Unit of U.S. Consulates in Mexico.
### Key Points to Prevent Visa Fraud
– Ensure your employer in the U.S. handles the work visa process and pays the related fees.
– Verify all payment receipts and ensure they are made to official consular accounts.
– Avoid sharing your Social Security number except with your handling attorney and current employer.
– Contact the Fraud Prevention Unit at U.S. Consulates in Mexico for assistance.
Scams surrounding work visa applications remain a persistent issue, and awareness is crucial in combating these fraudulent activities. Stay informed and vigilant to protect your personal information and ensure your visa process is legitimate.