Immigration consultants don't know 'secret laws' or shortcuts

[lawrence01]

Opinion

Immigration consultants don’t know ‘secret laws’ or shortcuts

IMMIGRATION CORNER By Michael J. Gurfinkel

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Many people come to me, after having their case messed up by an immigration consultant, telling me that some of these immigration consultants claimed that they know shortcuts, have inside connections, or know “secret immigration laws” that only they have access to (Somehow, attorneys are unaware of these “quick fixes,” known only to the consultant). They lure people into believing they can obtain green cards, even if the person is not qualified.

Immigration consultants do not have access to, nor do they have knowledge of, any “secret laws” that would expedite anybody’s immigration applications. There are no “secret laws” in the first place. Nor do immigration consultants have a “secret” way to obtain fast and legitimate visas or green cards. Such “secrets” or shortcuts are often illegal and invalid.

Immigration attorneys spend years studying immigration laws, attending seminars and special courses, researching, and reading the latest newsletters and daily journals to update their knowledge of the immigration law. There simply are no “special laws” or “special ways” to obtain fast immigration benefits, known or utilized only by immigration consultants.

There is only one way to legally obtain immigration benefits — by meeting and following all the requirements of the law.

There are no “shortcuts” or quick fixes to legalizing status in the United States. “Fast” green cards or “sure thing” processing are the first clues to disastrous and costly scams. Just follow the traditional norm to avoid a scam: “When it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.”

If you want to legalize your status in the United States, I suggest you go to a reputable attorney, who can help you evaluate your situation and find legitimate ways to obtain the immigration benefits available to you. Remember, the only way to legalize your status is to do it legally.

*Source: http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20080503106