As of right now, there are millions of illegal immigrants living in the United States. Many
San Diego immigration lawyers have worked closely with immigrants and discovered several frauds and scams in their documentation, in an attempt to get their status legalized. Here’s a look at the top ten immigration scams that take place in the US (and the ones you need to watch out for).
1. P-Visas.
Every year, hundreds and thousands of musicians and entertainers tour and perform in the United States. They come to the country on P-visas. However, many foreign entertainers accept bribes to add and bring some non-entertainers, as part of their crew, to the US. These non-entertainers are individuals seeking immigration.
2. C-1 Transits.
This is another common immigration scam. Many people secure low-paid jobs on board ships and vessels that frequently dock on US ports. These workers are issued with a C-1 transit visa that allows them to spend 30 days on land- which is enough for them to get lost in the country and live as illegal immigrants.
3. P.O. Boxes.
This scam is pretty complex and often requires assistance from corrupt immigration attorneys. For an intra-company transfer in multinational firms, the US government issues L-1 visas. This prompts fraudsters to incorporate fictitious companies in the US with a registered P.O. Box address and get themselves transferred to US.
4. Quest for God.
R-1 visas are typically issued for religious workers, who wish to attend some religious function. What’s to stop them from coming to the country, declaring their love for a local church and having their visa status changed?
5. Vacation.
This immigration fraud is pretty common. Vacation-seekers often come to the US on a valid tourist visa and then vanish without a trace.
6. Asylum.
No country is perfect. However, the list of asylum seekers in the US is endless. Fear of religious, ethnic or political persecution is a common reason for seeking asylum. It also prompts immigration scams as people come up with fictitious evidence of persecution.
7. Marriage.
Many locals in developing countries prefer US nationals for matrimonial purposes as it guarantees them a Green Card. Simply go through matrimonial websites, look at the demands and see for yourself! Even engagement with a US national can help you get a K-visa.
8. Business.
Visitors who come to the US on a business or a tourist visa are allowed to stay in the country for up to 6 months. They can extend their visas up to a total of 18 months. This is sufficient time for them to disappear among the people and lead a low profile life.
9. Reinvent.
Simply arrive in the US on a tourist visa and sign up for classes at any open-enrollment community college. Once your studies end, you will be granted a year for optional practical training. This gives you enough time to land a job in the US and get your immigration status changed.
10. Exchange Program.
This immigration scam is rarely committed, but, still, there are culprits. Some students who come to the US on an exchange program never leave, even after their program ends.
