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Becoming a registered immigration consultant in California is easy with this quick guide. Learn more about how to register and get bonded.
What is an immigration consultant?
An immigration consultant is someone who, for a fee, offers advice and assistance to clients on immigration matters. It’s important to note that immigration consultants are not authorized to offer legal advice. Some of their services can include:
- Translating clients’ answers to questions on immigration forms
- Submitting forms on a client’s behalf to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Referring clients to legal representation
That’s not a complete list, so make sure you understand the scope of services you can offer as an immigration consultant in California.
What do consultants need to register?
The first step in becoming an immigration consultant is registering with the California Secretary of State. Here’s what you’ll need to do and some of the documents you’ll need to submit for registration:
- Pass a background check
- Copy of a valid photo ID
- $100,000 surety bond
- Completed Immigration Consultant Disclosure form
- $30 filing fee
- 2″ x 2″ passport photo
Here are a few pieces of information you’ll need to provide on the disclosure form:
- Your name, date of birth, and home address and phone number
- Business address and phone number
- Employer information (if employed by a corporation or partnership)
Then, mail the form to the Secretary of State’s Special Filings Unit, P.O. Box 942870, Sacramento, CA 94277-2870.
You are not eligible to be an immigration consultant if you:
- Have been convicted of a felony
- Have been convicted of a disqualifying misdemeanor
- Fail to disclose any arrest or conviction
What does this surety bond do?
The immigration consultant surety bond protects anyone who uses their services, and the state, from financial damages. That’s because should a consultant’s business practices cause financial damages, a claim can be filed and if proven, the surety company will pay the claim up to the bond’s full amount. In this case, consultants need a $100,000 bond�that’s the total dollar amount the surety company will pay out for claims on this particular bond. But if any claims are paid, the consultant is on the hook for reimbursing the surety. Conduct business according to the law, and you’ll never need to use the bond.
Make sure to file a renewal or continuation of your surety bond with the Secretary of State before the bond expires. When you renew the bond, be sure to notify the Secretary’s office in writing within 30 days.