Fact Sheet: USCIS Warns of Immigration Scams Targeting Haitian Applicants for Temporary Protected Status
Archived Content
The information on this page is out of date. However, some of the content may still be useful, so we have archived the page.
USCIS warns Haitians applying for temporary protected status to be aware of immigration scams. USCIS has a dedicated website providing guidance on its response to Haiti at www.uscis.gov/haitianearthquake.
Representation
You do not need to have an attorney or a representative to apply for temporary protected status. If you choose to have a representative when filing an application or petition with USCIS, you may be represented by an attorney or an accredited representative of a recognized organization. Your representative must file a “Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative” form (Form G-28) with your TPS application. Please visit the “Finding Legal Advice” page on the USCIS website for more important information on this topic.
A list of free or low-cost legal service providers and a list of BIA accredited representatives are available on our website at the above link.
USCIS Forms & Fees
All USCIS forms are available at no charge on www.uscis.gov/forms or by calling the USCIS Forms hotline at (800) 870-3676. Applications for temporary protected status cannot be submitted online. The fee to submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, is $50. A biometrics fee of $80 is also required. The fee to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is $340. If you cannot afford the fees, a fee waiver may be available.
Helpful Tips
The following tips will help you to avoid becoming a victim of an immigration scam:
- DO NOT sign any blank papers or documents that you do not understand
- DO NOT sign any documents that contain false or inaccurate information
- DO NOT let anyone keep your original documents
- DO NOT pay more than a nominal fee to someone who is not an attorney or make payments on the internet
- DO make photocopies of all documents prepared or submitted for you
- DO get a receipt any time you pay someone to assist you in completing or submitting forms
- DO verify that your attorney is licensed or your representative is accredited by BIA
For additional information on how to avoid becoming a victim of an immigration scam and how to verify whether an attorney is licensed or a representative is accredited by BIA, please visit the “Don’t Be a Victim of Immigration Fraud” and “Finding Legal Advice” links at www.uscis.gov/haitianearthquake.