Immigration Law Trends for General Practitioners: What Every Attorney Should Know

Immigration is everywhere, and many non-immigration attorneys, especially general practitioners, will encounter immigration issues at some point in their practice. Although it is usually best to consult with an experience immigration specialist, it is nonetheless important for all attorneys to have a basic understanding of the immigration landscape so they can make an initial evaluation when issues do arise - whether in obtaining visas for specialized employees, encountering immigration concerns in family law matters, or responding to workplace audits.

Immigration policies are implemented by granting or denying visas. There are two types of visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Nonimmigrant visas are primarily issued to tourists and temporary business visitors, and only a few categories of non-immigrant visas allow their holders work in the United States. Immigrant visas (i.e. green cards) permit their holders to stay in the United States permanently and ultimately to apply for citizenship. A foreign national who has an immigrant visa is permitted to work in the United States. Congress limits the overall number of immigrant visas, and many immigrant visas are also subject to per-country limits. Under the current administration, these caps and controls have become the subject of increasing scrutiny and may be changed in the near future (i.e. chain immigration).

This presentation, taught by Immigration Law specialist Neil Weinrib, will explore various options and vehicles available to foreign nationals desiring to come into the United States and foreign companies seeking to set up U.S. based offices.

1. Introduce the various types of both immigrant and non-immigrant visas available
2. Provide a general overview of many different types of visa
3. Examine the intricate requirements of each visa identified and grasp the implications as applied to individual in various countries
4. Review the latest updates on current U.S. immigration policies and reforms
5. Discuss the mutual obligations as well as benefits that each visa can offer for the US economy and potential applicants