Immigrating to a new country is an exciting journey, but it’s also a process that requires careful planning and proper legal guidance. Unfortunately, immigration scams are on the rise, targeting vulnerable individuals who may not be familiar with the process. As a Calgary-based law office specializing in both Canadian and U.S. immigration, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of these scams.
To protect yourself and your loved ones, here are the key red flags to watch for and tips to ensure your immigration journey is safe and legitimate.
Red Flags of Immigration Scams
1. Guaranteed Approvals
If someone promises a 100% guarantee that your visa, permanent residency, or work permit application will be approved, it’s likely a scam. No legitimate immigration lawyer or consultant can guarantee the outcome of your application—decisions are made solely by government immigration authorities.
2. Requests for Cash Payments
Be cautious if you’re asked to pay fees in cash or through unofficial payment methods like gift cards, money transfers, or cryptocurrency. Reputable law firms and licensed immigration consultants accept payments through traceable, secure methods such as credit cards, e-transfers, or bank drafts.
3. Unlicensed Immigration Consultants
In Canada, only regulated immigration consultants (licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants) and lawyers in good standing with their provincial law society are authorised to provide immigration advice. For U.S. immigration, seek assistance from attorneys authorised by the American Bar Association. Always verify the credentials of anyone offering immigration services.
4. Unrealistically Low Fees
If the fees seem too good to be true, they probably are. Scammers often lure victims with low prices and then disappear after taking your money. Legitimate immigration services involve reasonable costs that reflect the time and expertise required to navigate complex immigration laws.
5. High-Pressure Tactics
If someone pressures you to act immediately or threatens negative consequences if you don’t comply, this is a major red flag. Scammers rely on fear and urgency to exploit their victims. A trusted immigration professional will give you time to consider your options and make informed decisions.
6. Fake Websites or Emails
Scammers often create fake websites or send emails that mimic official government agencies. Look for typos, suspicious URLs, or requests for sensitive personal information. Always verify the authenticity of the website by checking its domain name (e.g., “.gc.ca” for Canadian government sites or “.gov” for U.S. government sites).
How to Protect Yourself
1. Work with a Trusted Law Firm
Partnering with an experienced and reputable law office, like Ackah Law, ensures your immigration process is handled professionally. Our team is licensed, experienced, and committed to protecting our clients from fraudulent activities.
2. Verify Credentials
Before hiring anyone to assist with your immigration application, check their credentials. In Canada, you can verify lawyers through the Law Society of Alberta and immigration consultants through the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. For U.S. matters, verify attorneys through their state bar association.
3. Get Everything in Writing
A legitimate immigration professional will provide a written agreement outlining their services, fees, and terms. Avoid anyone who refuses to provide documentation or insists on verbal agreements.
4. Stay Informed
Knowledge is your best defence against scams. Visit official government websites such as IRCC for Canadian immigration or USCIS for U.S. immigration to get accurate and up-to-date information about processes and fees.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by an immigration scam, act quickly:
- In Canada: Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or your local police department.
- In the U.S.: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s attorney general.
- Seek Legal Advice: Contact a trusted immigration lawyer to assess your situation and explore your options for moving forward.
Trust Ackah Law for Your Immigration Needs
At Ackah Law, we are passionate about helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve their immigration goals while staying safe from scams. Based in Calgary, we specialise in both Canadian and U.S. immigration, offering transparent and personalised service you can trust.
If you have questions about your immigration journey or suspect you’ve encountered a scam, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you navigate the process with confidence.
By staying vigilant and working with licensed professionals, you can avoid scams and focus on making your immigration dreams a reality.
