The Secret To Easy Immigration In Chicago

By Charles Jones


Chicago presents numerous opportunities for immigrants. It offers a rewarding experience to those targeting long term stay or visiting for a few days. However, this experience can easily be ruined by ignorance of the laws on immigration in Chicago. You will easily be stranded and might find yourself on the wrong side of the law. To avoid such a scenario, assistance is provided through the state or approved agents.

There are three agents approved to provide assistance to immigrants. A licensed attorney with the state of Illinois will smoothly guide you through the process. The attorney may work through a supervised intern to render these services. There are non-profit organizations that are accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeal. You may also get assistance from licensed service providers operating as a business.

With a state as vast as Chicago, it could be challenging to identify legitimate assistance providers. Any agent assisting immigrants must have a current business operating license. Such an agent must also provide a formal contract that stipulates the services to be offered and other terms of engagement. Such assistants are required to clearly indicate the services they offer. This is done through a sign board in a language that is understandable and clearly visible. The board should be displayed at a strategic place for public convenience.

There are regulations limiting the amount charged for services to immigrants. This helps you to prepare your finances in advance and avoid shock fees. You will, for instance, be charged the lowest between 10 dollars for each filled page or 5 dollars per quarter an hour for form preparation. Judicial records charges are 15 dollars while fingerprinting is three dollars.

Immigration assistants in Chicago offer a range of services including translation of answers, instructions and questions on forms, transcribing responses to relevant government agencies and processing government forms. They also help you obtain vital government documents like birth and marriage certificates. There are agents offering translation for non-English speakers.

Notary of Public will also assist immigrants especially with legal documents and signatures. For an agent without such powers, he or she will refer you to a notary without charging for the referral. They direct you on medical exams and ensure that the results are presented in the appropriate manner. There are civics and language classes especially offered by non-profit organizations. You will also get photography and fingerprinting services.

No immigration assistant is allowed to retain your documents or forms. There are scams targeting naive immigrants. Some agents claim to have special or direct connections with the Department of Homeland Security or influence underlying agencies. Others promise special status upon giving a bribe. You will also find others operating under strange titles aimed at confusing you. By sticking to legal means, your application will be processed on time.

You are at liberty to make your application online or in person. Because of special cases based on nationality and individual mission, it is advisable that you consult a specialist in your consulate or embassy. Provide accurate information and stick to stipulated deadlines. This ensures that your application is not challenged or declined.




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