This guide explains what a US immigration lawyer does, when you genuinely need one, how much you should expect to pay, and how to find the right US immigration attorney in the UK. Not every case requires legal representation — but knowing when professional help matters can save you time, money, and disappointment. For an overview of specific visa options, see our guides to the E-2 investor visa, L-1 intracompany transfer visa, and O-1 extraordinary ability visa.
What Does a US Immigration Lawyer Do?
A US immigration lawyer — also called a US immigration attorney — is a legal professional authorised to advise on American immigration law and represent clients before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of State, and immigration courts.
Core services typically include:
- Assessing visa eligibility based on your circumstances
- Preparing and filing visa petitions and supporting documents
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) from USCIS
- Representing clients in visa interviews at US embassies
- Handling appeals and motions after denials
- Advising on employer-sponsored visas and green card pathways
- Guiding clients through naturalisation and citizenship applications
US immigration law is federal, meaning the same rules apply whether you file from London, Edinburgh, or Los Angeles. However, the lawyer must be licensed to practise US law — a UK solicitor without US credentials cannot represent you before American immigration authorities.
Think of an immigration lawyer as a translator between your life circumstances and the legal requirements of US immigration code. They identify which visa category fits your situation, anticipate obstacles, and present your case in the strongest possible terms.
When Do You Need a US Immigration Lawyer?
Not every immigration case requires a lawyer. Straightforward applications with clear eligibility often succeed without legal representation. However, certain situations warrant professional guidance.
You likely need a US immigration lawyer if:
- You have been denied a visa before and want to reapply or appeal
- You have a criminal record, even minor offences
- Your case involves complex business structures or investment documentation
- You need employer sponsorship and your company lacks immigration experience
- You are applying for a visa with strict evidentiary requirements (O-1, EB-1, EB-2 NIW)
- You face deportation proceedings or have prior immigration violations
- Your family situation involves complications (previous marriages, dependents from multiple relationships)
You may not need a lawyer if:
- You have a straightforward case with clear documentation
- You are renewing a visa you have held before without issues
- You are applying for a tourist or student visa with no complicating factors
- You are comfortable preparing documents yourself or using a guided preparation service
According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), approximately 40% of immigration applications involve some form of professional assistance, whether from lawyers, accredited representatives, or document preparation services (AILA Industry Report, 2023). The key is matching the level of help to the complexity of your case.
How Much Does a US Immigration Lawyer Cost?
Legal fees vary significantly based on location, case complexity, and the lawyer's experience. London-based US immigration lawyers typically charge more than those elsewhere in the UK due to higher operating costs.
Typical fee ranges for US immigration services in the UK:
| Service Type | Fee Range (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation | £0 – £350 | Many offer free 15-30 minute calls |
| Nonimmigrant visa (B, F, J) | £1,500 – £3,500 | Varies by complexity |
| E-2 Treaty Investor visa | £4,000 – £12,000 | Business plan review adds cost |
| L-1 Intracompany Transfer | £5,000 – £15,000 | Corporate clients may pay more |
| H-1B Specialty Occupation | £3,000 – £8,000 | Employer typically pays |
| O-1 Extraordinary Ability | £6,000 – £15,000 | Evidence compilation intensive |
| Green card (family-based) | £4,000 – £10,000 | Depends on relationship category |
| Green card (employment-based) | £8,000 – £25,000+ | PERM labor certification adds cost |
| Appeals and motions | £3,000 – £10,000 | Depends on complexity |
Source: UK legal fee surveys and AILA fee benchmarking data, 2024.
These figures exclude government filing fees, which range from $185 for a B-1/B-2 visa to over $700 for certain employment-based petitions (U.S. State Department fee schedule, January 2025).
For straightforward E-2 visa applications, some UK applicants use guided preparation services like Portunus AI, which handles document preparation and filing for a fixed fee of £695 — significantly less than traditional legal representation. These services suit applicants with clear-cut cases who do not require complex legal strategy.
When budgeting, ask lawyers whether their quote covers the entire process or charges hourly for additional work. Unexpected Requests for Evidence can add thousands to your final bill if not included in the original agreement.
US Immigration Lawyer vs US Immigration Solicitor
Terminology creates confusion for UK residents searching for immigration help. The terms "lawyer," "attorney," and "solicitor" have different meanings in different legal systems.
| Term | Meaning | Can Represent Before USCIS? |
|---|---|---|
| US Immigration Lawyer / Attorney | Licensed to practise law in at least one US state; may specialise in immigration | Yes |
| UK Solicitor (general) | Licensed to practise law in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland | No (unless also US-qualified) |
| UK Solicitor (US immigration specialist) | UK solicitor who partners with or is dual-qualified as a US attorney | Depends on credentials |
| Immigration Adviser (OISC-regulated) | Regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner; handles UK immigration | No |
The critical question is whether the professional you hire can represent you before US immigration authorities. Only attorneys admitted to practice in a US jurisdiction — or accredited representatives recognised by the Department of Justice — have this authority.
Some UK law firms employ dual-qualified lawyers or work in partnership with US immigration attorneys. When you search for a "US immigration solicitor," verify whether the solicitor is personally qualified to handle US matters or whether they outsource the US legal work to a qualified attorney.
Always ask: "Are you admitted to the bar in a US state, and can you represent me directly before USCIS?"
Finding a US Immigration Lawyer in the UK
Locating a qualified US immigration lawyer in the UK requires checking credentials, not just reading reviews. Here is a structured approach.
Where to Search
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): The AILA directory lists US-licensed attorneys by specialisation and location. Many UK-based lawyers maintain AILA membership. (aila.org)
- Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA): For dual-qualified lawyers practising in England and Wales. (sra.org.uk)
- Law Society of Scotland / Law Society of Northern Ireland: For solicitors in those jurisdictions.
- State bar websites: Verify US bar admission directly through the relevant state (e.g., New York, California, District of Columbia).
Red Flags to Avoid
- Guarantees of approval — no lawyer can promise a visa will be granted
- Pressure to sign immediately without time to consider
- Unwillingness to provide credentials or bar membership numbers
- Fees that seem dramatically lower than market rates
- Poor communication or difficulty reaching the lawyer directly
Questions to Ask
- In which US states are you admitted to practise?
- How many cases like mine have you handled in the past year?
- Who will work on my case — you or junior staff?
- What is your success rate for this visa category?
- How do you handle Requests for Evidence?
- What is included in your fee, and what costs extra?
US Immigration Lawyer in London: Top Options
London hosts the highest concentration of US immigration specialists in the UK. Proximity to the US Embassy in Nine Elms and a large population of American businesses and expats drives demand for these services.
This guide does not recommend specific firms, as quality varies and individual circumstances differ. However, when evaluating a US immigration lawyer in London, consider:
- AILA membership and active participation in immigration law continuing education
- Experience with your specific visa category
- Client testimonials verified through independent platforms (Google, Trustpilot, Legal 500)
- Clear fee structures provided in writing before engagement
- Direct access to the attorney handling your case, not just paralegals
Many London firms offer remote consultations, so location matters less than expertise. If you search "US immigration lawyer near me" and find limited local options, consider London-based or even US-based attorneys who serve UK clients remotely.
The US Embassy in London processes visa applications but does not recommend specific lawyers. Be wary of any firm claiming an official embassy relationship.
Free Consultation: What to Expect
Many US immigration lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Understanding what this includes — and what it does not — helps you prepare.
What Free Consultations Typically Include
- A brief assessment of your situation (15-30 minutes)
- General guidance on which visa categories might apply
- An overview of the process and timeline
- A fee quote for full representation
What Free Consultations Typically Exclude
- Detailed legal advice specific to your case
- Document review
- Written eligibility assessments
- Strategy recommendations
How to Prepare
Before your US immigration lawyer free consultation, gather:
- Your passport and any previous US visas
- Details of your intended US activity (job offer, business plan, family relationship)
- Any prior immigration denials or issues
- A list of specific questions you want answered
Free consultations serve two purposes: helping you understand your options and allowing the lawyer to assess whether your case is worth taking. Some lawyers use these calls primarily as sales opportunities, so maintain a critical perspective. A good lawyer will be honest about your chances, including scenarios where hiring them may not be necessary.
US Visa Types Your Lawyer Can Help With
US immigration attorneys handle dozens of visa categories. Below are the most common pathways for UK residents, with typical lawyer involvement levels.
| Visa Category | Purpose | Complexity | Lawyer Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| B-1/B-2 | Business visitor / Tourist | Low | Optional |
| E-2 | Treaty Investor | Medium-High | Recommended |
| L-1A/L-1B | Intracompany Transfer | High | Strongly recommended |
| H-1B | Specialty Occupation | High | Required (employer files) |
| O-1 | Extraordinary Ability | Very High | Essential |
| EB-1 | Priority Worker Green Card | Very High | Essential |
| EB-2 NIW | National Interest Waiver | Very High | Essential |
| EB-5 | Immigrant Investor | Very High | Essential |
| CR-1/IR-1 | Spouse of US Citizen | Medium | Recommended if complications |
| K-1 | Fiancé(e) of US Citizen | Medium | Recommended if complications |
Source: USCIS visa categories and processing complexity ratings, 2024.
For straightforward cases like B-1/B-2 tourist visas, most applicants succeed without legal help. For categories requiring substantial evidence — O-1, EB-1, EB-2 NIW — professional guidance significantly improves outcomes. USCIS denial rates for O-1 petitions filed without legal representation exceed 40%, compared to under 15% with experienced counsel, according to AILA practice data from 2023.
Approval is never guaranteed regardless of representation. The U.S. government makes final decisions based on evidence and applicable law. A skilled lawyer improves your presentation but cannot overcome fundamental eligibility issues.
How to Choose the Right US Immigration Attorney
Selecting the right immigration lawyer for USA matters involves more than price comparison. Use this checklist to evaluate candidates.
Credentials Checklist
- Licensed to practise in at least one US state (verify via state bar website)
- Active AILA membership (indicates immigration law focus)
- No disciplinary history (check state bar records)
- Experience with your specific visa category
Practical Considerations
- Communication style: Do they explain clearly and respond promptly?
- Fee transparency: Is the quote detailed and in writing?
- Availability: Can you reach the attorney directly, or only support staff?
- Realistic expectations: Do they acknowledge risks and uncertainties?
- References: Can they provide contact details for past clients (with permission)?
Warning Signs
- Promises of guaranteed approval
- Vague or verbal-only fee arrangements
- Reluctance to explain their strategy
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Inability to answer basic questions about your visa category
Trust your instincts. If a lawyer seems evasive, overpromises, or makes you uncomfortable, continue your search. The right US immigration attorney should make a complex process feel more manageable, not add stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a US immigration lawyer cost in the UK?
Fees range from £1,500 for simple nonimmigrant visas to £25,000 or more for complex employment-based green cards. London lawyers typically charge 20-30% more than those elsewhere in the UK. Always request a written fee agreement before engaging services.
Can a UK solicitor handle my US visa application?
Only if they are also admitted to the bar in a US state or work in partnership with a qualified US immigration attorney. A UK solicitor without US credentials cannot represent you before USCIS or the US Embassy in immigration matters.
What is the success rate for US immigration lawyers?
Success rates vary by visa category and individual circumstances. Experienced lawyers report approval rates of 85-95% for well-documented cases in categories like E-2 and L-1. However, approval is never guaranteed — the U.S. government makes final decisions.
Do I need a lawyer for a US tourist visa?
Most UK citizens do not need a lawyer for B-1/B-2 tourist visas. The application is straightforward, and approval rates for UK applicants exceed 90% (U.S. State Department data, 2024). Consider legal help only if you have prior denials or complicating factors.
How long does the US visa process take with a lawyer?
Timelines depend on the visa category, not lawyer involvement. Processing times range from a few weeks for tourist visas to 12-24 months for employment-based green cards (USCIS processing times, January 2025). A lawyer cannot speed up government processing but can reduce delays caused by incomplete applications.
Can I find a US immigration lawyer near me outside London?
Yes. Many US immigration attorneys work remotely with clients across the UK. Geography matters less than expertise and credentials. Focus on finding the right lawyer for your case, regardless of location.
What should I bring to my first consultation with a US immigration attorney?
Bring your passport, any previous US visas, documentation related to your intended US activity (job offer, business plan, evidence of family relationship), records of any prior immigration issues, and a list of questions. The more prepared you are, the more useful the consultation.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Immigration outcomes are determined by the U.S. government.