Chicago is a haven for immigrants. It has something unique for short term visitors as well as those targeting to stay longer. Ignorance of laws that govern immigration in Chicago could lead to a nasty experience. The risks include deportation, jail or even declined application. To make your entry and stay easy, assistants approved by the government guide you through the process.

The state has approved three categories of agents to assist immigrants. The first category is that of licensed attorneys operating within the state. They are at liberty to work through trained and supervised interns in their discharge of duty. You may also seek assistance from dedicated non-profit organizations. These organizations are under the supervision of Board of Immigration Appeal. The other option is to use private immigration assistance providers operating as businesses.

How do you identify an accredited assistant in such a vast state and city? Such assistants are required to obtain and always maintain an updated business license. The assistants are also required to always offer their services under a written contract. They are also required to post signs boards advertising their services in strategic places, using appropriate language and ensuring that it is clearly visible.

The state regulates charges for services offered by the agents by putting an upper limit. This ensures that you are well prepared when organizing your finances to avoid shocks. For instance, the charges for form preparation are 5 dollars each quarter an hour or 10 dollars per page, whichever is lower. Fingerprinting will cost you 3 dollars while charges for judicial records are 15 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.

Assistants who are licensed Notaries of Public will authenticate the signatures used on official documents. In case they are not, they offer referrals to accredited attorneys. Such referrals are offered free of charge. Assistants also organize medical exams with reputable clinics and institutions as well as collection of results in the format required. Not-for-profit organizations and assistants operating as businesses will conduct civics and language causes. They arrange to have fingerprints and photographs taken as well.

The law prohibits retention or delay of documents by any agent. Be careful to avoid scams seeking to exploit your naivety. The scams are executed by agents claiming special connections to or influence of Department of Homeland Security and underlying agencies. They will promise a special status or quick services if you give an extra amount. Others concoct strange titles to confuse immigrants. Stick to the legal path and your application will be successfully processed.

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.