How to Become an Immigration Adviser
Earn a bachelor's degree., Move to a state that allows immigration advising., Learn to speak foreign languages., Train in immigration issues., Apply to be a notary public., Obtain a surety bond worth between $30,000 and $100,000., Submit your...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree.
A high school diploma is the lowest amount of education you will need, because you will need it to register for college classes.
Earning a bachelor's degree in business, foreign language or communications will give you the opportunity to earn a law degree in the future. -
Step 2: Move to a state that allows immigration advising.
Each state has their own regulations governing immigration professionals, so check the California, Utah, New York, Michigan or Georgia Secretary of State website. , Research the variety of languages that are spoken in your area, and begin learning them.
Learning Spanish, Mandarin, Portuguese and other languages will increase your client base. , You may want to enroll in immigration law courses in order to understand where your services end and a lawyer's begin.
Search for instructional websites or courses on filling out common types of immigration forms.
Alternatively, you can choose to earn a law degree.
If you want to provide legal advice, you can earn a general law degree and choose electives in immigration and citizenship issues.
Law schools near the coasts, and in areas with high numbers of immigrants, are likely to offer a larger number of immigration courses.
Earning a law degree will raise your projected salary and number of potential clients.
Many people seeking immigration require immigration advice about what type of immigration to apply for and what to fill out.
Immigration advisers are unable to offer this advice. , This state-authorized position allows you to sign and authenticate documents with the use of a special seal.
You may be required to submit an application, a recommendation and fees.
In some states you may be required to take courses in ethics and business in order to become a notary public.
You can contact the National Notary Association (NNA) to inquire about programs.
Once completed, you will receive a certificate that you can submit to the state.
A notary can provide services for a fee, so it can become part of your immigration adviser services.
A notary must keep track of every use of their seal in a log book. , Consult your Secretary of State to confirm the amount that is necessary to practice. , Submit proof of a surety bond, citizenship and experience to your Secretary of State. , The state licensing board will submit your fingerprints to authorities.
You may be required to scan your fingerprints in person. , The immigration advisory market is fraught with scams and illegal services.
Create a website that lists your services and references.
Hang your surety bond and license in your workplace.
Working from an office and/or with an immigration center is an excellent way to earn clients and prove your legitimacy. -
Step 3: Learn to speak foreign languages.
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Step 4: Train in immigration issues.
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Step 5: Apply to be a notary public.
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Step 6: Obtain a surety bond worth between $30
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Step 7: 000 and $100
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Step 8: Submit your application to become a licensed immigration adviser.
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Step 9: Pass a background check.
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Step 10: Establish your credibility.
Detailed Guide
A high school diploma is the lowest amount of education you will need, because you will need it to register for college classes.
Earning a bachelor's degree in business, foreign language or communications will give you the opportunity to earn a law degree in the future.
Each state has their own regulations governing immigration professionals, so check the California, Utah, New York, Michigan or Georgia Secretary of State website. , Research the variety of languages that are spoken in your area, and begin learning them.
Learning Spanish, Mandarin, Portuguese and other languages will increase your client base. , You may want to enroll in immigration law courses in order to understand where your services end and a lawyer's begin.
Search for instructional websites or courses on filling out common types of immigration forms.
Alternatively, you can choose to earn a law degree.
If you want to provide legal advice, you can earn a general law degree and choose electives in immigration and citizenship issues.
Law schools near the coasts, and in areas with high numbers of immigrants, are likely to offer a larger number of immigration courses.
Earning a law degree will raise your projected salary and number of potential clients.
Many people seeking immigration require immigration advice about what type of immigration to apply for and what to fill out.
Immigration advisers are unable to offer this advice. , This state-authorized position allows you to sign and authenticate documents with the use of a special seal.
You may be required to submit an application, a recommendation and fees.
In some states you may be required to take courses in ethics and business in order to become a notary public.
You can contact the National Notary Association (NNA) to inquire about programs.
Once completed, you will receive a certificate that you can submit to the state.
A notary can provide services for a fee, so it can become part of your immigration adviser services.
A notary must keep track of every use of their seal in a log book. , Consult your Secretary of State to confirm the amount that is necessary to practice. , Submit proof of a surety bond, citizenship and experience to your Secretary of State. , The state licensing board will submit your fingerprints to authorities.
You may be required to scan your fingerprints in person. , The immigration advisory market is fraught with scams and illegal services.
Create a website that lists your services and references.
Hang your surety bond and license in your workplace.
Working from an office and/or with an immigration center is an excellent way to earn clients and prove your legitimacy.
About the Author
Ryan Chapman
A passionate writer with expertise in pet care topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.
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