Did you know that the United States has more immigrants than any other country? More than 20% of the world’s international migrants call the United States their home. Immigrants account for 13.8% of our population – and more are coming.
What does this mean for you? Now is the best time to consider becoming an immigration paralegal.
With immigration on the rise and a hot-button issue, there’s a high demand for these professionals. The job provides excellent opportunities to make a positive impact on clients, too.
Plus, immigration paralegals earn an estimated total pay of $73,889 per year. Think about it: High demand, high salary, and high job satisfaction make for a great living.
Of course, it isn’t all roses and rainbows. Set realistic expectations by considering these main immigration paralegal responsibilities first.
- Conduct legal research
- Assist with client interactions and case management
- Gather relevant documents, manage case files, and translate documents
- Draft legal documents
In short, immigration paralegals are vital in the immigration process. Without them, the immigration system wouldn’t be as effective.
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What Does an Immigration Paralegal Do?
Every immigration paralegal job description is unique. There are common immigration paralegal responsibilities, nonetheless, as follows:
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist clients, attorneys, and others with legal documents and paperwork. Accuracy and completeness are a must.
- Communicate with clients, government agencies, and other concerned persons. Think of yourself as a bridge that enables individuals to see eye to eye.
SUPPORT SERVICES
- Provide support services, such as initial client interactions, evidence-gathering activities, and file management.
- Prepare legal documents, such as legal briefs and case summaries, for approval.
- Keep track of deadlines and other court-related matters.
- Aid attorneys before, during, and after court hearings.
- Conduct legal research on immigration laws and regulations.
Suffice it to say that as an immigration paralegal, you’ll be on your toes and keep a sharp mind.
Skills Needed for Immigration Paralegals
These immigration paralegal responsibilities aren’t for the untrained. During your training, you will develop the skills needed for immigration paralegals.
COMPETENT KNOWLEDGE OF IMMIGRATION LAWS, RULES, AND REGULATIONS
You must have depth and breadth of knowledge about the immigration system. Since immigration laws are always in flux, you must update your knowledge, too.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS
You must be able to explain immigration laws in a way that your audience understands. Effective communication skills are also vital in dealing with emotions. Both written and oral communication skills therefore are a must.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Accuracy and completeness can make or break a case. Attention to detail ensures that even the smallest error won’t happen.
Common Immigration Processes Handled by Paralegals
Immigration paralegals handle four main types of applications.
VISA APPLICATIONS
Employment, family, student, and tourist visas are the most common. Visa application assistance paralegal professionals assist clients from day one, in terms of completing documentation requirements and addressing issues in the complex process.
GREEN CARD APPLICATIONS
A green card enables foreigners or non-US citizens to permanent residence in the country. The process of obtaining a green card can be tedious and take long processing times. The main Green Card process paralegal role is assisting in gathering evidence for eligibility. There are also different types of green cards that immigration lawyers can help applicants navigate. Paralegals with this specific type of expertise are expected to provide strategic advice, and assist in efficient and accurate completion of all the required documentation.
ASYLUM APPLICATIONS
These involve a complicated process, including legal documents and arguments. Immigration paralegals assist asylum seekers in filling out forms, telling their stories, and keeping records.
CITIZENSHIP APPLICATIONS
Immigration paralegals also help clients understand and navigate the citizenship process.
Immigration paralegals also assist in the processes involving denied immigration applications, deportation, convictions, as well as divorce or separation from a permanent resident spouse. This type of legal work hinges on the goal of assisting clients, educating them about their rights and application status, expediting immigration processes, and protecting such clients.
The Impact of Immigration Paralegals on Clients
If you perform your immigration paralegal responsibilities well, you can make a positive impact on your clients. Here’s how.
Provide appropriate client support.
While legal support is your main role, it isn’t the only one. Immigrants face an emotional rollercoaster before and during the immigration process. You should then also offer emotional support, such as answering their questions and making them feel seen.
Ensure timely processes.
You must ensure the submission of complete and accurate documents on or before the deadline. Otherwise, you’re risking delays, rejections, and legal consequences for your clients.
Pathways to Becoming an Immigration Paralegal
Here’s how to become an immigration paralegal and start a rewarding career in the legal industry.
- Earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, criminal justice, or political science.
- Gain practical experience through volunteering, internships, and entry-level jobs as a paralegal or legal assistant.
- Earn a specialized certification for immigration paralegals. Check out the certification programs offered by NALA and ABA.
Career Opportunities for Immigration Paralegals
The beauty of a paralegal career in immigration law is its wide range of career opportunities. You can use your paralegal skills in different workplaces, including:
- Law firms
- Non-profit organizations that advocate for immigrant rights
- Business corporations that hire immigrant workers
- Government agencies
- Immigration consulting firms
- Colleges and universities that accept international students and immigrants
Immigration paralegals are paid depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the paralegal’s level of expertise and experience, and the specific services they provide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says paralegals work mostly in law offices, and with teams with lawyers and other support staff.
The immigration paralegal job growth and advancement are excellent, too. You can manage more complex cases as a senior paralegal. Being an attorney specializing in immigration laws is also a possibility.
Top 5 Programs for Immigration Paralegals
These are the best programs for immigration paralegals to receive further training.
UCLA Extension Paralegal Training Program
Los Angeles, CA
UCLA’s ABA-approved program offers a comprehensive curriculum. Students choose between in-person and on-campus options. There’s a strong emphasis on practical skills development.
Boston University – Center for Professional Education
Boston, MA
BU provides students with a well-rounded, ABA-approved paralegal certification program. Emphasis is on immigration law. Both in-person and online options are available.
Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies
Washington, DC
Georgetown’s ABA-approved Paralegal Studies program includes an immigration law elective. The program offers in-person and online options. Students enjoy its strong reputation and networking opportunities.
Florida International University – Legal Studies Institute
Miami, FL
FIU offers a Paralegal Certificate Program with a strong emphasis on immigration law. On-campus and online options feature flexible scheduling and practical applications.
University of Miami – Paralegal Certificate Program
Coral Gables, FL
The ABA-approved program features coursework in immigration law. Online and on-campus courses are available. Students gain practical skills.
Conclusion
Immigration paralegals are VIPs in the legal system, too. Their job responsibilities make them the right-hand men of immigration lawyers. With their expertise, immigrants applying for visas, Green Cards, asylum, and citizenship have a better chance. Indeed, theirs is a job with a huge impact.
So, why not consider it? Yes, there are challenges, but the high salaries and high impact are worth it.
