Immigration Paralegal Jobs

Paralegal immigration jobs are in some ways similar to those of immigration lawyers, although there are some important differences. In particular those in paralegal immigration positions are not authorized to do certain things that lawyers are. In addition they are likely to work far more closely with the clients than do lawyers and unlike immigration lawyers there are no formally defined requirements.

The duties of these positions include researching visas and visa alternatives for clients, arranging the obtaining and translation of foreign documents and drafting letters and petitions on behalf of clients. It is intensive yet varied work that allows great scope for specialization and advancement.

As immigration paralegals often work very closely with the clients this job can have a very rewarding personal angle to it. Successfully helping a person to achieve citizenship provides a feeling of having genuinely helped someone fulfill their dreams adding a personal dimension to the job over and above the monetary and professional aspects

Being an immigration paralegal is well remunerated with average starting salaries of around $30 - 40,000. This can be substantially higher with experience and specialist skills. As you will not have to pay the hefty costs incurred in training to become a lawyer from the beginning you will have the opportunity to work within the legal profession without the burden of large loans to pay back.

Immigration paralegal openings are available in foreign countries the world over. Within the states hot beds of recruitment include California, in particular Los Angeles, and New York. Given the number of Spanish speaking clients immigration law firms receive fluency in Spanish can be a distinct advantage.

Other attributes that will allow your resume to stand out are excellent communication skills, dedication and a knowledge of the relevant laws over and above that received from your training. Paralegal training is a necessity, however it can be obtained at various levels from basic vocational training to Bachelors and Masters degrees in paralegal immigration.