If you’ve searched for immigration help online, you’ve probably come across a lot of conflicting information. Some of it sounds believable. Some of it doesn’t. But when you or your family’s future is on the line, guessing isn’t an option.

At our Tampa immigration office, we hear the same myths over and over—usually from people who were misled by something they read or heard from a friend. The truth is, immigration law is complicated. But the myths around it don’t help anyone.

So let’s set the record straight. Here are some of the most common myths about immigration—and what’s actually true.

Myth #1: If you’re undocumented, there’s nothing you can do

This is one of the most harmful assumptions people make. And it’s not true.

If you’re undocumented, you still have legal rights. You might be eligible for a visa, green card, or even citizenship, depending on your situation. You might qualify for a deportation waiver. And if you’ve been threatened with deportation, you have the right to fight it.

Don’t assume your case is hopeless. Talk to a real immigration lawyer—not a notario or someone giving free advice online.

Our Tampa immigration office focuses on deportation defense. We've helped many people in this exact situation.

Myth #2: Only people who entered the U.S. legally can become citizens

Many people think the only path to citizenship starts with a visa. That’s not always true.

There are legal ways to adjust your status, even if you entered the country without a visa. If you’ve married a U.S. citizen, if you're the victim of a crime, or if you meet certain humanitarian conditions, you might be eligible to apply for a green card—and eventually for citizenship.

Your path may be complicated. But it's not impossible.

Myth #3: If you marry a U.S. citizen, you automatically get a green card

Marriage doesn’t guarantee anything. It opens a door, but you still have to go through the legal process.

The government doesn’t just hand you a green card because you got married. You have to prove that the marriage is real. You’ll need to attend an interview and submit documents. If you’ve overstayed a visa or have a deportation order, that could affect your application too.

We help clients through this process at our Tampa immigration office all the time. It’s not automatic, but it’s doable with the right legal support.

Myth #4: Immigration court is just a formality—you’ll be deported anyway

This one causes a lot of fear. People think once they’re in court, the outcome is already decided. That’s not how it works.

Immigration judges actually listen to evidence and legal arguments. If you have a strong case and a good lawyer, you have a real chance at staying in the U.S. We’ve handled many deportation defense cases where the person was allowed to stay.

But here’s the thing: showing up with the right lawyer matters. If you go it alone or wait too long to get help, your chances go down.

Myth #5: You don’t need a lawyer to apply for a visa or green card

Technically, you don’t. But in reality, it’s risky.

Immigration forms look simple on the surface, but small mistakes can lead to delays, denials, or even trigger deportation proceedings. Having a lawyer ensures your application is accurate and complete.

At our Tampa immigration office, we see a lot of people who tried to do it themselves first—and then came to us after something went wrong. It’s better to get it right the first time.

Myth #6: Immigrants are a burden on the system

This one isn’t just wrong—it’s dangerous.

Immigrants contribute to the economy, pay taxes, start businesses, and serve in the military. Most are here to work, support their families, and live peacefully. The idea that immigrants take more than they give is a myth rooted in fear, not facts.

And it has no place in an honest conversation about immigration.

Myth #7: Only adults have immigration issues

Kids face serious immigration challenges too. Many children come to the U.S. alone or with a parent. Others are born here but have undocumented parents.

If your child needs help—maybe with a visa, a deportation defense case, or a special immigrant juvenile status (SIJS) application—get legal advice right away. These cases can be time-sensitive and complex.

Our team handles family-based immigration and helps reunite families legally and safely.

Myth #8: If you’ve been the victim of a crime, you should stay quiet to avoid trouble

Actually, speaking up can protect you—and it can help your immigration case.

Victims of crimes like domestic violence, human trafficking, or assault may be eligible for visas (like a U visa or T visa). These exist specifically to protect people who are afraid to report crimes because of their immigration status.

The system doesn’t always work perfectly, but these protections are real. You don’t have to choose between your safety and your future in the U.S.

Need Help? Start With a Call

If you're unsure what to do next, the best step is to talk to a licensed immigration lawyer. Not someone who gives advice on social media. Not someone who promises fast results without a legal plan.

Our Tampa immigration office is here to help. We serve clients in Tampa, Zephyrhills, and across the world.

We focus on:

• Deportation defense
  
  
• Green card applications
  
  
• Citizenship
  
  
• Fiance and marriage visas
  
  
• Victims of crimes visas
  
  
• Family reunification
  
  
• Visa applications and waivers
  
  

If you're dealing with any immigration issue, talk to us before taking action.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Contact Tampa Immigration Law Center today and find out what’s actually possible. We’ll help you understand your options.