Essential Prescreening Questions to Ask Your Potential Business Immigration Attorney

What Types of Business Immigration Cases Have You Handled?

It's important to know what types of cases the attorney has handled in the past. This can give you a sense of their experience and expertise in the field of business immigration. For example, they might have experience with corporate transfers, investor visas, or employment-based green cards.

Can You Explain Your Experience with H-1B Visas?

The H-1B visa is one of the most common types of work visas in the U.S. If you or your employees are seeking this type of visa, it's crucial that the attorney has a deep understanding of the application process and requirements.

Do You Have Experience with L-1 Visas?

L-1 visas are for intracompany transferees. If your business plans to transfer employees from a foreign office to a U.S. office, it's essential to find an attorney who has handled these types of cases.

What Is Your Success Rate with Business Immigration Cases?

Knowing the attorney's success rate can help you determine their level of expertise. However, keep in mind that each case is unique, and past success does not guarantee future results.

How Do You Keep Up-to-Date with Changes in Immigration Law?

Immigration laws can change frequently. It's important to find an attorney who stays current with these changes to ensure that they provide accurate and up-to-date advice.

Do You Have Experience with PERM Labor Certification Process?

The Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) is the process for obtaining labor certification, the first step in the green card process for foreign workers. It's a complex process that requires an attorney with specific experience.

Do You Have Any Experience with EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 Visas?

EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 visas are for foreign workers who wish to immigrate to the U.S. based on their job skills. Each category has different requirements and processes, so it's crucial to understand the attorney's experience with each one.

Can You Assist with Business Immigration Litigation If Necessary?

While most business immigration cases do not end up in court, it's still important to have an attorney who can handle litigation if necessary.

Have You Ever Handled a Case Similar to Mine?

Each immigration case is unique, but there might be similarities between your case and previous cases the attorney has handled. Understanding how they've handled similar cases can give you insight into their strategy and approach.

Have You Ever Dealt with Complex Business Immigration Cases?

Some business immigration cases are more complex than others. If your case has unique challenges or complications, it's important to find an attorney who has experience handling complex cases.

What Is Your Communication Style and How Often Do You Communicate with Your Clients?

Communication is key in any legal case. You want an attorney who will keep you informed and answer your questions promptly and clearly.

Can You Assist with the Process of Obtaining a Green Card through Employment?

If you or your employees are seeking to obtain a green card through employment, it's important to find an attorney who can guide you through the process, from the labor certification to the final steps.

Do You Have Experience with E2 Treaty Investor Visas?

The E2 Treaty Investor Visa is for individuals who want to invest in a U.S. business. An attorney familiar with this type of visa can help you understand the requirements and guide you through the application process.

Do You Have Experience with O-1 Visas for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement?

The O-1 visa is for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. This is a highly specialized type of visa that requires an attorney with specific experience.

What Is Your Process for Preparing a Client for a Visa Interview?

The visa interview is a critical part of the application process. An experienced attorney can help you prepare for the interview and anticipate the questions you might be asked.

Do You Have Any Experience with I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers?

The I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is a form that a prospective employer files to petition an alien to work permanently in the U.S. An attorney with experience in this area can guide you through the process.

Do You Have Any Experience with Non-Immigrant Visas Like B1, E1 or E3 Visas?

Non-immigrant visas like B1, E1, and E3 are for temporary workers. If you or your employees are seeking these types of visas, it's important to find an attorney who has handled these cases.

Can You Assist with Immigration Audits and Compliance?

Businesses that employ foreign workers are subject to immigration audits. An attorney can help you ensure that your business is in compliance with immigration laws and can assist you in the event of an audit.

How Do You Handle Cases Where a Visa Application Is Denied?

Visa denials can be frustrating and disheartening. An experienced attorney can help you understand the reasons for the denial and guide you through the process of reapplying or appealing the decision.

Can You Provide References from Past Clients Who Had a Similar Case to Mine?

References can provide valuable insight into the attorney's skills, professionalism, and reliability. Don't hesitate to ask for references and contact them to get a firsthand account of their experience with the attorney.