How do scammers target new immigrants?
New immigrants face immigration-services fraud, fake government notices, employment scams, and notario fraud because language barriers, unfamiliarity with U.S. systems, and fear of authorities make them especially vulnerable.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
Immigrants newly arrived in a country are unfamiliar with how government agencies communicate, what fees are legitimate, and which professionals are authorized to provide legal help. Scammers exploit all three gaps. Notario fraud is particularly harmful: in many Latin American countries a 'notario publico' is a licensed legal professional, but in the U.S. the title has no such meaning. Unauthorized individuals charge large fees for immigration forms they fill out incorrectly, causing visa denials or deportation proceedings.
Fake government notices mimic letters from USCIS, ICE, or the IRS, threatening arrest, deportation, or loss of benefits unless immediate payment is made by wire or prepaid card. Because the consequences of ignoring real government notices are severe, many victims comply out of fear rather than skepticism.
Employment scams target those seeking work authorization, charging fees for nonexistent jobs, stealing identification documents, or running money-mule schemes where the immigrant's bank account is used to receive and forward fraudulent funds. The immigrant may face criminal exposure while the scammer disappears.
Community-based protection is the most effective countermeasure. Trusted community organizations, accredited representatives listed on the EOIR website, and legal-aid societies provide free or low-cost immigration help. Encouraging newcomers to verify any individual claiming to offer immigration services against official accreditation lists before paying anything is critical.
Common red flags
- Person claims to be a 'notario' or 'immigration consultant' who can file visa papers for a fee
- Letter or call threatening deportation or arrest unless you pay immediately
- Request to hand over original passport, green card, or other identity documents
- Job offer requires you to pay a fee upfront or use your bank account to receive payments
- Government agency demands payment by prepaid card, gift card, or cryptocurrency
- Caller knows your immigration case number and uses it to seem legitimate
What to do now
- Check EOIR.gov for accredited immigration representatives before paying for any immigration help
- Contact USCIS directly at 1-800-375-5283 to verify any notice claiming to be from them
- Never hand over original documents; keep certified copies instead
- Contact a legal-aid organization or accredited immigration attorney if threatened
- Report immigration fraud to the FTC and your state attorney general
- Share warnings in community groups about known local immigration scammers
Frequently asked questions
What is notario fraud?
Notario fraud occurs when an unauthorized person misuses the title 'notario' or 'immigration consultant' to charge immigrants for visa or legal services they are not licensed to provide. Mistakes in filings can result in visa denials, delays, or deportation, and the money paid is usually not recoverable.
Will real government agencies call and threaten deportation?
No. USCIS, ICE, and similar agencies communicate primarily by mail. They do not call to demand immediate payment by gift card or wire transfer to avoid deportation. Any such call is a scam.