Optional · 1 of 3

What makes you good at this specifically

• A second language spoken fluently

  Nothing else on this list matters as much. Interpreters are expensive, slow and sometimes wrong.

• Certification as an immigration law specialist

  Some states run a formal specialist certification for experienced immigration attorneys. It is optional and it signals depth.

• Membership of the immigration bar association

  The American Immigration Lawyers Association, founded in 1946, runs the practice alerts, training and case updates that this field actually runs on. Rules change constantly.

• Detention and removal defense experience

  The hardest and most needed work, usually done at nonprofits, often in remote facilities.

• Business immigration knowledge

  Employment visas and company transfers. The commercial side, and the better-paid one.