Immigration consultants are not attorneys, but they can answer basic questions about filing forms, naturalization, and immigration laws. Unlike immigration attorneys, they do not represent clients in immigration court. In addition, they are not allowed to keep original documents. If you find an immigration consultant on your list who claims to be an immigration attorney, beware.
There are many reasons why an immigration consultant might not be your best bet. One common reason is lack of oversight. Fraudulent immigration consultants target vulnerable people and fail to deliver the documents they promise, often bilking their victims out of thousands of dollars. Immigration consultants are so profitable that some states have laws to regulate them. AB-638, a California state law passed in 2016, sought to regulate the profession and prohibit immigration consultants from charging clients for their services without regulation.
Another reason is lack of knowledge. If an immigration consultant does not have legal training, he or she cannot represent clients in immigration court. A legal immigration consultant should have a law degree and be licensed to represent immigrants in federal court. They should also be able to provide a list of their clients and their cases. In addition to their expertise, immigration consultants should be well-versed in California immigration law and be familiar with immigration laws.
A good immigration consultant should be able to provide non-legal immigration services to their clients. This means that they should be registered with the Secretary of State's office. The Secretary of State will ensure that they have met all of the qualifications needed to practice their business. This includes a background check and fingerprints. Additionally, a consultant should have a California Surety Bond.
A licensed immigration consultant must have a bond of $50,000. It is important to ask for a copy of this bond to ensure that your consultant is reliable. Then, be sure to get a written contract. It is essential to check references, especially those from reputable community organizations. Moreover, it is best to seek legal advice before signing any contract. Moreover, a written contract should list what services the consultant will provide and the amount you should pay.
In addition to immigration lawyers, California immigration consultants can also be Notaries. These individuals must be bonded and registered with the Secretary of State to be able to offer legal services. Immigration consultants who have both credentials are highly recommended. But beware of unlicensed immigration consultants. It may be better to go with a licensed attorney.
The salary range for an Immigration Consultant in California is significantly above the national average. The highest paying cities include Sunnyvale, Inverness, and Long Beach. These cities pay on average $22,696 - or 30% more than the national average. It may be worth considering relocating to one of these cities for financial advancement. If you're in the same position as a California Immigration Consultant, you should consider moving to a higher-paying city.
The best place to find a California immigration consultant is online. Many of these agencies offer easy application processes and affordable rates. Once you've decided to hire an immigration consultant, make sure you check the bond's terms and conditions. Make sure the immigration consultant's bond is continuous. In addition, make sure the consultant pays the renewal premium on time.