Immigration Document Preparation for Self Represented (Pro Se) Clients
Expert document preparation and case management for self-represented individuals navigating the U.S. immigration system—without the high cost of hiring an attorney. Our specialization extends to clients across the Americas, serving all countries in North, Central, and South America, and the Caribbean.
You can do it, we will guide you.
Professional Paralegal Support
At CalStar Legal, we support self-represented (pro se) individuals and families navigating the complex U.S. immigration system. Our certified paralegals provide expert document preparation, FOIA records support, certified translations, and case management.
We offer comprehensive administrative support without the high costs associated with attorney representation.
⚠️ Disclaimer: We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice or legal representation. Our services are strictly limited to administrative document preparation, translation, case management and document review. Referrals to licensed immigration attorneys are available if needed.
Case Management Package
1
Initial Consultation
A comprehensive 60-minute Zoom or Phone consultation with a certified immigration paralegal to understand your specific situation and needs.
2
Document Review
Up to 5 hours of thorough document review on your existing or prior immigration filings and case history to ensure accuracy and completeness.
3
Customized Intake
Personalized intake process and detailed document checklist tailored to your specific immigration situation and goals.
What's Included in Your Case Management Fee
USCIS FOIA Request
Complete preparation and submission of your USCIS Freedom of Information Act request to obtain your immigration history (valued at $200+).
Lifetime Document Management
Ongoing file setup, communication tracking, and lifetime document management for your immigration case.
Agency Communication
Professional communication with government agencies on your behalf, keeping you insulated from direct government contact.
Attorney Referral
If your case requires legal representation, we provide referrals to qualified immigration attorneys.
Family Applications
Adding Family Members to Your Case
- For each additional spouse or minor child, an additional $500 Case Management Fee applies
- No extra charge for preparing additional USCIS or consular forms for those dependents
- All family members' files will be managed together under one coordinated case plan
FOIA: The Critical First Step
Before filing any new visa petition (except naturalization), we begin with a USCIS FOIA request to obtain your complete immigration history. This crucial step ensures we:
Access Your Records
Know exactly what the government already has on file about your immigration history.
Prevent Problems
Avoid delays or denials due to missing or inconsistent information in your applications.
Build a Strong Case
Develop a more effective and complete application strategy based on your actual records.
Know Your Opponent
Understand the government's perspective and any potential concerns about your case before filing.
FOIA Request Benefits
1
Access Your Full Immigration History
Retrieve your A-File, including all past forms, decisions, notices, and correspondence with USCIS. Confirm entry dates, visa types, status changes, and previous immigration benefits.
2
Identify Inconsistencies
Compare new applications with past submissions to prevent contradictions that could lead to RFEs, denials, or accusations of fraud. Verify all biographic and procedural information.
3
Check for Prior Denials or Inadmissibility
Understand reasons for past denials and identify any inadmissibility grounds flagged by officers that could impact future petitions, allowing for proactive addressing.
4
Review USCIS Officer Notes
Access officer comments, RFEs, interview summaries, or internal memos, providing crucial insights into how your case was previously evaluated.
5
Assess Eligibility Before Filing
Avoid costly filing fees for petitions you may not qualify for. Determine if prior unlawful presence, fraud, or unauthorized work requires a waiver.
6
Support for Waivers or Appeals
Identify necessary evidence for waiver applications (e.g., I-601) or effectively respond to a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) or Motion to Reopen.
7
Avoid Duplicate Filings
Verify the status of previous applications—whether pending or denied—to prevent delays and unnecessary submissions of already reviewed forms.
8
Plan Co-Sponsorship and Adjustment Strategies
Confirm if a previous sponsor withdrew or if a new I-864 Affidavit of Support is needed. Critical for planning effective strategies with multiple petitions.
9
Prepare for Interviews
Review previously submitted documents and questions raised by officers to ensure consistency in new filings and to confidently prepare for upcoming interviews.
10
Demonstrate Diligence and Good Faith
Proactively reviewing your immigration record helps present a case that is accurate, complete, and establishes your commitment to honesty and due process.
Why FOIA Requests Matter
Complete History Access your entire immigration record to understand previous decisions and filings. Identify Issues Discover potential problems or inconsistencies before they affect new applications. Ensure Consistency Maintain consistent information across all immigration filings and applications. Strategic Planning Develop more effective application strategies based on your actual record.
Understanding FOIA Requests
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests are a powerful tool in immigration cases. They allow you to access your complete immigration file, including:
- Previous applications and petitions
- Entry and exit records
- Officer notes and internal memos
- Decision rationales and case history
Additional FOIA Requests
If your case requires additional government records beyond USCIS, we can request them on your behalf for a flat fee of $100 per agency:
FOIA Request Management
Preparation
We prepare and submit all necessary FOIA request forms to the appropriate agencies.
Monitoring
We actively monitor all FOIA requests and follow up with agencies to ensure timely responses.
Delivery
We securely deliver all received records to you and help interpret their significance to your case.
Translation services are available for all received documents if needed.
✅ Benefits of Having a Third Party Handle FOIA Requests
1
Insulation from Direct Government Contact
Your representative uses their own address and contact info (not yours), so you don't receive mail directly from USCIS or DHS. You avoid anxiety or confusion caused by direct government correspondence.
2
Professional Guidance and Monitoring
The FOIA is filed correctly, including the right forms (G-639 or letter format) and supporting ID documents. A third party tracks the request and follows up with the agency, reducing risk of delays or miscommunications.
3
Privacy and Discretion
Your personal information is handled confidentially by a professional. Useful for immigrants living in mixed-status households or concerned about exposing status to landlords, employers, or others.
4
Accurate Identification of Records
A paralegal can ensure the correct Alien Number (A-Number), name variations, or aliases are included in the request, especially if you've used multiple identities or had errors in past filings.
5
Bilingual Communication
Spanish-speaking professionals can explain the process in plain language and translate the FOIA response once received. Helps ensure you fully understand what USCIS has on file before filing any petition.
6
Strategic Pre-Screening for Future Petitions
Professionals can review the FOIA with you and identify risks (e.g., prior deportation orders, misrepresentations, or unlawful presence issues). This can prevent costly mistakes in future filings like I-130, I-485, or I-601 waivers.
7
Avoiding Rejection or Delays
Many pro se FOIA requests are rejected for missing forms, incorrect IDs, or insufficient authorization. A third party ensures complete, properly formatted requests with the right documentation.
8
Emotional Support and Empowerment
Having someone assist reduces fear, confusion, and the sense of isolation that many undocumented immigrants feel when interacting with the government. It gives clients confidence and a sense of control over their immigration process.
9
No Legal Risk
FOIA is a civil right, not a trigger for enforcement. A third party helps reassure clients that filing a FOIA is safe and legal, and doesn't expose them to ICE or deportation just by requesting records.
10
Secure and Reliable Document Handling
By using our professional office mailing address, your FOIA responses are delivered to a secure and monitored mailbox, ensuring that important government correspondence is never lost, misdelivered, or intercepted. This adds a layer of protection and reliability to the process.
Certified Translation Services
We provide professional certified translations between English and Spanish for all your immigration documents:
🔹 Volume discounts available for 3 or more documents
🔹 Each translation includes a signed Certificate of Accuracy
🔹 Each translation includes a signed Certificate of Accuracy
Bilingual Support
English & Spanish Services
All our services are available in both English and Spanish to ensure clear communication and understanding.
Se habla español. Nos especializamos en asistir a personas inmigrantes que se representan a sí mismas ante USCIS, el consulado o el tribunal migratorio.
Translation Services Details
Professional Certified Translations
Our certified translations meet all USCIS and consular requirements. Each translated document includes:
- Complete and accurate translation of the entire document
- Proper formatting that mirrors the original
- Certificate of Accuracy signed by the translator
- Translator's statement of qualifications
Factors Affecting Cost
While our pricing structure is transparent, several factors may influence the final cost of your immigration document preparation:
Case Complexity
Extra documentation requirements, appeals, or consular processes may require additional work.
Paralegal Experience
Senior paralegals with specialized expertise may bill at higher hourly equivalents.
Service Scope
Basic forms vs. full evidence packets with translations and supporting documentation.
Agency Interactions
Additional FOIA requests, RFE responses, or motion drafting may incur extra costs.
Common Immigration Documents We Prepare
Family-Based Petitions
I-130 Petitions for relatives, adjustment of status applications, and consular processing documents.
Employment Documents
Work permit applications, employment authorization renewals, and related supporting documentation.
Employment-Based Visas
EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, and other employment-based immigrant visa petitions for professionals and skilled workers.
Citizenship Applications
N-400 Naturalization applications, certificate of citizenship requests, and related forms.
Humanitarian Relief
VAWA, U visa, T visa, and asylum application documentation preparation.
Tourist Visas
B-1/B-2 visitor visa applications for tourism, business, and temporary visits to the USA.
Our Document Preparation Process
Initial Consultation
We begin with a comprehensive 60-minute consultation to understand your immigration goals and history.
FOIA Requests
We obtain your complete immigration history through strategic FOIA requests to relevant agencies.
Document Preparation
Our certified paralegals prepare all necessary forms and supporting documentation for your case.
Quality Review
Every document undergoes thorough review to ensure accuracy and completeness before submission.
Benefits of Pro Se Representation
Cost Savings
Representing yourself with paralegal support can save thousands compared to attorney fees, while still ensuring professional document preparation.
Direct Control
You maintain control over your case while receiving expert guidance on administrative requirements and procedures.
Transparency
Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges throughout your immigration process.
Ongoing Support
Lifetime document management ensures your immigration records remain organized and accessible.
When You Might Need an Attorney
While our paralegal services are comprehensive for document preparation, certain situations may require attorney representation:
- Complex legal issues or eligibility questions
- Criminal history that may affect immigration status
- Prior deportation or removal proceedings
- Need for legal strategy or arguments in court
We maintain relationships with qualified immigration attorneys and can provide referrals if your case requires legal representation beyond document preparation.
The CalStar Legal Difference
Certified Expertise
Our paralegals hold professional certifications and maintain ongoing education in immigration procedures.
Bilingual Service
Seamless communication in both English and Spanish ensures nothing gets lost in translation.
Transparent Pricing
Clear, upfront fees with no hidden costs or surprise charges throughout your immigration journey.
Lifetime Support
Ongoing document management and record-keeping for all your immigration matters.
Document Management System
Our comprehensive document management system ensures your immigration records remain organized and accessible:
Secure Storage
All your documents are stored in our secure, encrypted digital system with regular backups.
Lifetime Access
Retrieve your documents and records at any time, even years after your initial case.
Deadline Tracking
We monitor important dates and renewal deadlines to prevent status lapses.
Organized Filing
Systematic organization of all your immigration documents for easy retrieval.
Client Success Stories
Family Reunification
"CalStar Legal helped me prepare all the documents for my parents' green card applications. The process was smooth, and their FOIA request revealed important information about my own immigration history that helped strengthen our case."
- Maria S., Los Angeles
Citizenship Journey
"After years of uncertainty, I finally became a U.S. citizen with CalStar's document preparation assistance. Their attention to detail and thorough approach made all the difference in my naturalization application."
- Carlos R., San Diego
Our Service Commitment
What You Can Expect
- Prompt responses to all inquiries within 24 business hours
- Clear explanations of all processes and requirements
- Regular updates on your case status and FOIA requests
- Thorough quality control on all document preparation
- Honest assessment of your case, including referral to attorneys when needed
Getting Started with CalStar Legal
1
Initial Contact
Complete our inquiry form or call to schedule your initial consultation with a certified paralegal.
2
Consultation
Discuss your immigration goals and history during your 60-minute Zoom or phone consultation.
3
Case Setup
Pay the Case Management Fee and complete our intake process to begin your document preparation.
4
FOIA Requests
We submit appropriate FOIA requests to obtain your complete immigration history.
5
Document Preparation
Based on your records and goals, we prepare all necessary immigration forms and supporting documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a paralegal and an attorney?
Paralegals can prepare documents and provide administrative support but cannot give legal advice or represent clients in legal proceedings. We focus exclusively on document preparation and administrative support.
How long do FOIA requests take?
The timeline for FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) responses can vary by agency, workload, and request complexity. Here’s a general estimate based on immigration-related FOIA requests: While typical processing times can range from 4 weeks to 6 months depending on the agency, we monitor all requests and provide regular updates on their status.
Can you guarantee my application will be approved?
No service can guarantee approval of immigration applications. We ensure your documents are properly prepared and complete, but final decisions rest with USCIS or consular officers.
Do I need to be in the US to use your services?
No, we assist clients located anywhere in the world. Our services are conducted remotely via phone, email, and video calls.
What types of payment do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers for all our services. Payment plans may be available for certain packages.
How do you ensure my personal information is secure?
We use encrypted digital systems and follow strict privacy protocols to protect all your sensitive documents and personal information.
What if my case is denied after your assistance?
While we cannot guarantee approval, we strive for accuracy and completeness. If a denial occurs, we can help review the denial notice and discuss potential next steps, including attorney referrals.
Can you help me choose the correct immigration form?
We can identify the most common forms relevant to your situation based on the information you provide, but we cannot offer legal advice on which form is best for your specific case. Always consult with an attorney for legal advice.
How often will I receive updates on my case?
We provide regular updates via email or phone on your case status and FOIA request progress. You can also reach out to us with any questions.
Is there a consultation fee?
Yes, we charge a $100 consultation fee for our initial 60-minute zoom or phone session, which allows us to comprehensively discuss your immigration goals and history. If you proceed to hire us within 5 days of your consult, this fee is credited towards your $500 case management fee.
Do you offer service in Mexico?
Yes, we have representatives able to meet clients at the USA Consulate in Tijuana and additional staff in La Paz, Mexico, serving our clients throughout Latin America. Contact us today to discuss your case details and arrange your consultation.
What happens after my documents are prepared?
Once your documents are prepared and reviewed, we provide you with clear instructions on how to submit them to USCIS or the relevant consulate. We remain available for questions regarding the submission process.
Why Choose CalStar Legal
Expertise, Not Exorbitant Fees
Our certified paralegals provide professional document preparation at a fraction of attorney costs. We focus exclusively on administrative support, empowering you to confidently represent yourself.
Comprehensive Client Support
From initial consultation through document filing and beyond, we offer continuous guidance throughout your immigration journey, ensuring peace of mind.
Culturally Attuned & Bilingual
Based in San Diego, California, our team offers services in both English and Spanish, providing culturally sensitive support and clear communication for clients, especially those in Latin America.
Clear & Predictable Pricing
Our straightforward flat-fee structure means no surprises or hidden costs. You'll always know the exact investment upfront, ensuring financial clarity.
Get Started Today
Begin your immigration journey with professional document preparation support. Let's build your case from the ground up—with clarity, accuracy, and comprehensive support.
Schedule a Consultation
Take the first step toward your immigration goals with a comprehensive 60-minute consultation with our certified paralegals.
Request FOIA Records
Start building your case with a complete understanding of your immigration history through strategic FOIA requests.
Document Preparation
Get expert assistance with preparing your immigration forms and supporting documentation for submission.