Immigration is one of the biggest issues facing California and the nation right now. Turn on the television or open up any newspaper (online in this case) and you will find a story on immigration. A recent article on WashingtonPost.com by William Harless is just one of hundreds of examples. (see full article here). What is rarely reported, however, are the growing number of professions that serve the immigrant community. One of these professions, The California Immigration Consultant, offers a valuable service by, among other things, helping immigrant families obtain and file necessary forms, and notifying them when they are in need of legal assistance. To ensure that only strong applicants enter this profession, the California secretary of state requires that applications obtain a California Immigration Consultant Bond before they are issued a license.
According to Immigration Nation US, Immigration Consultants, “have the knowledge of process and procedures for filing certain immigration documents and is also knowing of available resources for cases that are beyond the capabilities of an immigration consultant. The bulk of work lies in preparing documents, document packages and filings for clients with various and specific immigration needs” More information can also be found at their website.
Pursuant to the new provisions of California Business and Professions Code section 22443.1, however, the bond requirement has doubled and all applicants and renewal’s will have to obtain an $100,000 Immigration Consultant Bond. For more information on the requirements see the California's Secretary of State website: http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/sf/imm-consultant-qualifications.htm
Despite the increase in bond amount, the profession remains in high demand. California has an immigrant population (naturalized and other) of over 10 million and many of these people need expert help so they legally proceed with the immigration process.
If you wish to receive more information on the California Immigration Consultant Bond or have general questions about the bonding process, please contact one of the Surety Bond Experts at Jurisco. A friendly member of their staff will be there to answer all of your queries.