BBB Reminds Consumers to Check Bonding, Licensing When Seeking Immigration Services

After the filing of four complaints against Albert A. Villela, Immigration Consultant, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers of the importance of researching businesses before paying for services.

The four individuals lodging disputes allege that after paying for immigration services upfront, the company failed to complete the paid-for services.

“Villela instructed me to get a second set of photos,” said a Tracy man who allegedly paid $800 and was then told his paperwork had been lost. “After I got the photos, he would not file the paperwork. I want my money refunded so that I can go elsewhere and get my citizenship paperwork filed to become a U.S. citizen.”

A Modesto man also complained of paperwork never being filed after paying for services. “I demanded my money back, but he just threatened to call the police on me if I didn’t leave,” said the consumer.

Immigration consultants are required to obtain a $50,000 bond in the state of California. Though the company represented itself as bonded on a business card provided by a consumer, BBB was unable to locate a current bond through the California Secretary of State’s office. 

"Using someone who is bonded for immigration work gives extra insurance that your paperwork will be filed, or if it isn't, that you have recourse for a refund," said Gary Almond, president of BBB serving northeast California. "Before you do business with anyone, research their history and verify they are appropriately bonded or licensed."

If you or someone you know is seeking immigration services, BBB recommends the following when searching for a business:

• If the person offering services claims to be an attorney, verify their licensing with the State Bar of California. 
• If you cannot afford an attorney, check with the Board of Immigration Appeals for attorneys who provide immigration services for free or at very little cost. 
• If you are seeking assistance through an immigration consultant, ensure they are registered with the California Secretary of State’s Office and that they have posted the required $50,000 bond.
• Never sign an incomplete or incorrect form. If something is incorrect, the applicant is held liable, not the document preparer.
• Never pay for a blank government form. Government forms are free, though there is a charge associated with submitting the forms.
• If you feel you have been a victim of fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov), the California Attorney General’s Office (ag.ca.gov) andyour BBB (www.necal.bbb.org).

Find more tips on finding a reliable immigration assistance service in the original press release.

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