Immigration lawyer: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What immigration lawyer is

An immigration lawyer provides information about visas, residency, citizenship and related filings, and may prepare applications or represent clients before agencies. People look for one when planning to move, sponsor a relative, work in a new country or respond to a notice. General information, not advice.

Signs you need it

  • You want to sponsor a spouse, parent, child or employee
  • Your visa or permit is close to expiring and you are unsure what to file
  • You have received a government notice or a request for more evidence
  • An application was denied and you want to understand the options
  • You are preparing to apply for permanent residence or citizenship
  • You or a relative has been told to appear before an immigration court

What the pro does

  • Review your immigration history, documents and goals
  • Explain, in general terms, which categories of applications may relate to your situation
  • Collect identity, civil and supporting records and organize them for filing
  • Prepare and submit forms and supporting statements
  • Track notices and deadlines and respond to requests for evidence
  • Represent you at interviews or hearings where permitted

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The type of application or case
  • Number of family members or applicants included
  • Whether translations are needed
  • Whether there are past denials, gaps or complicating history
  • Whether a hearing or appeal is involved
  • How complete your records are
  • Whether the employer or sponsor needs legal work as well

What a written quote should spell out

  • The specific application or forms covered
  • Government filing fees listed separately from legal fees
  • Translation and document costs
  • Whether responses to requests for evidence are included
  • Whether interviews and hearings are included

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Which type of application do you think applies to my situation, and why?
  • What records do you need me to gather?
  • Do you handle hearings as well as applications?
  • How will you keep me informed of notices and deadlines?
  • What happens if a request for more evidence arrives?
  • Are you permitted to represent clients before the agencies involved?
  • Will the same person handle my case from start to finish?

Red flags

  • A person who is not a licensed lawyer or accredited representative but offers legal advice
  • A promise that your application will be approved
  • A request to sign blank forms or to give false information
  • A preparer who keeps your original documents
  • Pressure to pay in cash with no receipt

What you can do yourself

You can gather identity documents, civil records, proof of relationship or employment, and a timeline of your travel and status. Many agencies publish free forms and guidance. Because mistakes can affect your status, speak with a licensed attorney or an accredited representative, and never sign anything you do not understand.

Licenses and permits

Immigration lawyers must be licensed attorneys in good standing. Some nonprofit representatives are accredited to practice before certain agencies. Check the license with the state bar or the accreditation with the relevant program.

Immigration lawyer questions

Can a lawyer promise approval?

No. Approval is decided by the government agency. A lawyer can explain the process and prepare the filing.

Can a notary or consultant handle my immigration case?

A notary generally cannot give legal advice on immigration. Check that anyone advising you is a licensed attorney or accredited representative.

Should I keep my original documents?

Yes. Provide copies unless an agency specifically requires an original, and keep a record of what you submitted.

What if I got a notice with a deadline?

Contact a licensed attorney or accredited representative promptly, because deadlines can be short.

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