National organizations of immigration advocates are cautioning that members of the immigration community need to be alerted to the widespread practice of notarial fraud in relation to the PROPOSED changes in rules in immigration policy related to the “family unity waiver.” The changes, if implemented, would make it possible for undocumented family members of U.S. citizens to remain in the U.S. while applications are being processed, rather than return to countries of origin. The wait for processing can take 3 to 12 years, during which time families are separated.
The problem is that unscrupulous lawyers and other advisors (notarios) are encouraging people to file applications now, which can actually work against the possibility of eventual success, if the applications are denied. People must wait until the rule change is finally approved before taking any action.