
Introduction
In almost every stream of business, there are usually entities that bend the rules in order to benefit themselves. Some businesses operate in grey areas while others are downright illegal and fraudulent. Immigration is a multi billion dollar sector in India and recently, immigration to the United States by Indian citizens has been on the rise. People are getting into deeper debts and selling ancestral property just to be a part of American culture.
Businesses have noticed this trend and would gladly use fraudulent techniques to get a potential customer to part with their hard earned money. With any kind of transaction, vigilance is key and ensuring fairness is of paramount importance when it comes to immigration.Students looking for a USA study visa requirements.
Following are a couple of tips to help one navigate the immigration sector in India without falling prey to fraudsters:
Paying for immigration forms
US immigration forms are available free of cost on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. They never charge for their forms and any entity selling them for a fee is almost certainly trying to take advantage of an unsuspecting customer. Moreover, the USCIS has relevant and up to date information on their website where potential applicants and review current regulations and guidelines. A fraudulent immigration consultant might misrepresent facts or introduce new information. In extreme cases, fraudulent immigration officials seldom keep promises and the customer is forced to give up their dreams while they are slowly robbed of their savings. Such cases are on the rise and ensuring that an organisation is genuine should be an important point to consider for many aspirants.
Thoroughly Read Forms Prior to Signing
This tip applies to any form, regardless of whether it is for immigration or not. Fine print must be examined carefully and additional service fee or charges must be clearly outlined. Immigration forms can provide legal power to an organisation and your signature might lead to a commitment that might give an entity complete right to represent you. One must be careful regarding what is on paper and what is said orally, they may not always match. Millions of students dream to study in the United States but sometimes this ambition clouds their judgement at the heat of the moment. l.
This can not only lead to broken dreams but in worse case scenarios, it can be a financial pit for the entire family. Some organisations give applicants false hope despite being aware of their poor chances. These fraudulent consultants will oftentimes hide reality and keep charging fees even after a rejection has been received. In extreme cases, fraudulent documents and mark sheets are used to make a case, which can be a refusal at best or a legal matter at worst.
Question whether paying with Cash is the best option
The USCIS never accepts any payment in Cash and Organizations claiming to only accept cash are a major red flag. Transactions made in cash cannot be traced online or by banks. The only semi-legal way is a receipt but the validity of which can be questioned at any moment. The number of students and even young professionals who wish to one day earn a living in the United States are constantly rising. The salaries offered there seem attractive to the average immigrant. However, the cost of living is high in the US and sometimes professionals do not account for unexpected expenses.
Fraudulent immigration officials usually misrepresent information and reassure customers regarding their big move. They advertise salaries earned by part time jobs in the USA by Indian students and convince customers that the initial cash investment is only a fraction of future income potential. This can be a risky financial move and another reason to verify and research an institution before trusting their best study visa consultants.
Conclusion
In general, it is always good practice to be well informed regarding any potential decision regarding immigration. Not only is it a life changing event, the financial avenues of most immigrants are unstable for the first few years after moving. There are also cases of identity fraud since students hand over all their documents to such organisations and give them full authority. Making sure that an Immigration Organization is genuine is of paramount importance. Moreover, reputed consultancies have multiple branches and a stellar reputation. Staying up to date, vigilant and having a keen eye for detail is key to avoiding a scam.