Immigration Fee Agreement: What You Need to Know
As a non-citizen, if you wish to come to the United States, it is mandatory that you pay a fee to cover the costs of processing your visa application. However, the immigration fee can be quite costly, and this is where the Immigration Fee Agreement comes in.
The Immigration Fee Agreement (IFA) is an agreement between an individual and an immigration attorney or agency, in which the individual agrees to pay legal fees in exchange for legal assistance in obtaining their visa. This agreement is an important aspect of immigration application procedures, and it is essential that you understand its implications before entering into any agreements.
The IFA is a legal contract that outlines the terms of payment for the services rendered by the immigration attorney or agency. The agreement sets out the scope of work to be carried out, the cost of the legal services, the payment structure, and the refund policy. It also outlines the attorney`s or agency`s responsibilities, including filing the necessary documents and communicating with the immigration authorities on behalf of the client.
It is important to note that the IFA is a separate agreement from the immigration application fee. The application fee is paid directly to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is non-refundable. The IFA covers the legal services provided by the attorney or agency and is subject to a separate agreement.
The cost of legal services under the IFA can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the time required to process the application, and the expertise of the immigration attorney or agency. It is, therefore, essential to understand the cost of legal services and fee structure before signing the agreement.
The IFA should also include a refund policy in case the attorney or agency fails to deliver the agreed-upon services. Some attorneys or agencies may offer refunds only if the visa application is denied, while others may offer refunds for other reasons such as poor service delivery.
Before entering into an IFA, it is essential to carefully review the agreement and seek legal advice if necessary. An experienced immigration attorney or agency can assist in analyzing the terms of the agreement and provide guidance on its implications.
In conclusion, the Immigration Fee Agreement is an important aspect of the immigration application process. It allows individuals to obtain legal assistance in obtaining their visa and outlines the terms of legal payment. Understanding the agreement`s terms and implications is essential to protect your rights and avoid any legal disputes.