Immigrating to the United States is a significant life decision—and unfortunately, it’s also a target for scammers looking to take advantage of people during this vulnerable process. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) urges everyone to stay vigilant against common immigration scams. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Beware of Government Impersonators

Scammers may pose as USCIS officials, contacting you through unofficial or personal platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. Remember:

• USCIS will never contact you via personal social media accounts.
• Always verify communication through official .gov websites or phone numbers.
• If you’re unsure, contact USCIS directly through their official site: uscis.gov

2. False Offers of Support for Parole

Some individuals may offer to act as your financial supporter in exchange for money, personal information, or even promises of labor or marriage. Be cautious:

• Supporters are volunteers and should not demand payment or compensation.
• You are not obligated to repay or serve your supporter.
• Only trust people you know or verified supporters to file Form I-134A on your behalf.
• Learn more about your rights in the “Understand Your Rights” guide.

3. Job Offer Scams

Receiving a job offer before arriving in the U.S. can be exciting—but it can also be a scam, especially if:

• You’re asked to pay money upfront for a job.
• The offer comes from unknown companies via email or social media.

Even if the job offer is real, you can’t legally work in the U.S. without proper authorization such as a Green Card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a valid employment visa.

If you’re on a student visa, always consult your designated school official before accepting any job opportunity.

4. Fake Social Media Pages and Scam Websites

Websites and email addresses that don’t end in .gov might be impersonating USCIS. Protect yourself:

• Only trust official USCIS social media accounts: Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
• Be skeptical of websites or emails claiming USCIS affiliation unless they are clearly government-run.

5. Visa Lottery (Diversity Immigrant Visa) Scams

The U.S. Department of State, not USCIS, manages the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery program. Watch for these red flags:

• Participation is free—never pay to enter the DV lottery.
• The State Department will not email you if you’re selected.
• To verify your selection status, go to the official DV program website.

Stay Informed. Stay Safe.

Scammers prey on fear and hope. By staying informed and only using official government resources, you can protect yourself and your immigration journey.

To learn more about how to avoid immigration scams, visit the official USCIS page:
🔗 uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/common-scams