Avoid “New Law” Scams

With any actual or potential change in immigration law or programs, there is an opportunity for unscrupulous individuals to attempt taking advantage of the unwary. Recent developments in immigration policy are no exception, and are prompting some to perpetuate scams.

Immigration Proposals: No Law So Avoid Scams

There have been many reports in the news about immigration reform. As explained in recent NewsBriefs available on our website, these reform efforts are only proposals. As of this writing, we are still a long way from the enactment of any changes in U.S. immigration law. MurthyDotCom will provide updates on these proposals, and will clarify whether there has been any change to existing immigration laws. Until such changes are enacted into law, it is necessary to work within the current system of immigration laws.

No one should pay for services or benefits under future potential programs that do not exist. There are reports of such manipulations of individuals hoping to benefit from immigration reform. Our readers are warned not to allow themselves, their friends, or their family members to fall victim to this type of scheme.

New Programs Cause Some Confusion

DACA for those who Entered U.S. as Children

Some of the confusion regarding the existence of new immigration options stems from recent changes for the benefit of undocumented foreign nationals. The first change is a key program that provides temporary immigration benefits for certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children. This program, known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), was reported to our readers in USCIS Releases Helpful Resources on Deferred Action Program (10.Aug.2012). More information is available on the USCIS WebSite.

Provisional Waiver for Certain Immediate Relatives

The other recent change, effective 04 March 2013, involves a procedural change known as a provisional waiver. This is not a new form of immigration benefit or relief. It is a new procedure allowing for the filing of a request for forgiveness or waiver of immigration status violations from within the United States. It applies to a specific, limited set of circumstances and is only available to those who are spouses, minor children, or parents of U.S. citizens. It does not eliminate the need to leave the United States. Rather it simply facilitates the ability to obtain permission to return to the U.S. More information on this can be found on the USCIS WebSite.

Conclusion

Foreign nationals are advised to be very careful when obtaining immigration guidance and representation. The numerous changes in policy, procedure and regulations are complex and can be overwhelming. These are often mistakenly understood to be changes in the law, which are far less common. While it is sometimes important to act quickly when opportunities arise in the immigration context, it is even more important to have proper advice. If something is unclear or seems too good to be true, a second opinion may be needed in order to find clarity.

Since 1994, we at the Murthy Law Firm have provided updated information to our readers on genuine immigration programs and changes in laws and procedures. If or when immigration reform becomes a reality, MurthyDotCom readers will be provided with detailed coverage and insights. Questions or concerns may be discussed in a consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney at the Murthy Law Firm.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here is of a general nature and may not apply to any specific or particular circumstance. It is not to be construed as legal advice nor presumed indefinitely up to date.