Visa Permit Document Fraud Lawyer Arlington Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Visa permit document fraud in Arlington, Virginia, is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1546, carrying penalties of up to 25 years in prison and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals accused of falsifying immigration documents. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | DC Official Code
Federal Law on Immigration Document Fraud
Federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 1546, criminalizes fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other immigration documents. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly forge, counterfeit, alter, or falsely make any immigrant or nonimmigrant visa, permit, border crossing card, alien registration receipt card, or other document prescribed by immigration laws. It also prohibits using, attempting to use, possessing, obtaining, accepting, or receiving any such fraudulent document. Violations are prosecuted as felonies in federal court, such as the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The law aims to protect the integrity of the U.S. immigration system.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 1546 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Receive a target letter or be contacted by federal agents (FBI, HSI).
- Secure legal representation immediately—do not speak to investigators without your lawyer.
- Your attorney will analyze the evidence and may negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- If indicted, your lawyer will file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Prepare for trial or pursue a plea agreement based on the strength of the government’s case.
In Arlington, Virginia, federal visa permit document fraud charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1546 can result in up to 25 years imprisonment, substantial fines, and mandatory deportation for non-citizens upon conviction.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Immigration Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forgery/Counterfeiting of Visa/Permit (18 U.S.C. § 1546) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Deportation, permanent bar from U.S. | Asset forfeiture, loss of professional licenses |
| Use/Possession of Fraudulent Document | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Deportation, inadmissibility | Criminal record, difficulty obtaining future visas |
| Conspiracy to Commit Document Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 371) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Deportation, inadmissibility | Same penalties as underlying offense |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Immigration Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases, including immigration document fraud. We understand that these charges threaten your liberty and your future in the United States. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, challenging procedural errors, and exploring all avenues for defense, including negotiating for alternatives to deportation where possible.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on protecting our clients’ rights from the investigation phase through resolution. For example, attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, brings a detailed understanding of government procedures that can be crucial in federal defense. We provide aggressive representation aimed at the best possible result.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients facing federal charges. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We provide immigration help to individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is visa permit document fraud?
It is a federal crime involving the forgery, counterfeiting, alteration, or fraudulent use of immigration documents like visas, permits, or green cards to gain an immigration benefit, as defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1546.
Can I be deported for document fraud?
Yes. A conviction for visa or permit document fraud is a deportable offense and can lead to a permanent bar from re-entering the United States.
What should I do if I’m under investigation?
Immediately contact a visa lawyer experienced in federal defense. Do not speak to ICE, FBI, or other agents without your attorney present. Early legal intervention is your most important step.
What are the possible defenses?
Defenses may include lack of intent, entrapment, insufficient evidence, or challenging the legality of how evidence was obtained. An immigration attorney can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
How can a lawyer help with document fraud charges?
A skilled visa permit document fraud lawyer in Arlington Virginia can negotiate with prosecutors, file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the legality of the investigation, and work to protect you from the severe consequences of a conviction.
Related Pages: For other legal needs, see our Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer page or our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub. For a similar issue in a nearby area, view our Federal Criminal Lawyer Alexandria page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.