How to become An Immigration Consultant

An Immigration Consultant guides individuals seeking greener pastures so they are not denied educational and entrepreneurial opportunities in the country of their choice, so they enrich and strengthen the society they yearn to belong to.

• Immigration Specialist

What do Immigration Consultants do?

An Immigration Consultant would typically need to:

• Provide non-legal immigration assistance to clients to enhance their chances of immigration for study, work, travel or business
• Meet clients to understand their immigration requirements and assess their chances of being approved for a visa
• Customise the process to suit the needs of the clients; hire translators, if necessary
• Walk clients through the application process in detail face to face or by post; keep abreast of any changes in immigration laws
• Help prepare the immigration applications and paperwork; verify the documents are accurate and error-free
• Submit all required documents on behalf of clients to the proper authorities within the strict deadlines imposed by the government
• Offer recommendations on medical checkups and other mandatory procedures
• Remain accessible to the clients through the entire process; give them regular updates regarding their immigration status and any impending delays
• Serve clients in all aspects of immigration such as family sponsorship, express entry, refugee claims, permanent residency, study or work
• Ensure safe relocation and proper handling of pets, if required; process tax treaty evaluations, if necessary
• Undertake training of the human resources (HR) department in multinational corporations (MNCs) to expand their understanding of relevant immigration and visa laws
• Assist clients in locating appropriate courier facilities that can meet all shipping requirements
• Ascertain compliance with all pertinent immigration rules and regulations during the entire process
• Possess comprehensive knowledge of the laws and regulations directing the travel and tourism industry
• Conduct meticulous in-depth research to ensure the immigration process runs smoothly without hiccups
• Maintain accurate records and invoices of all services delivered; liaise with various governing agencies on behalf of the client
• Maintain productive relationships with clients, colleagues and authorities; provide them with any relevant information required

Immigration Consultants typically work in an office environment. To serve their clients well, they will need to coordinate with other Immigration Consultants, translators, staff from other departments, and government bodies, typically via telephone and email. 

Immigration Consultants typically work for around 40 hours/week. They may have to work odd hours when contacting government bodies and other organisations in various parts of the world after accounting for the different time zones. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Immigration Consultants can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Immigration Consultants are generally employed by: 

• Immigration Consultancies
• The Travel and Tourism Industry
• HR Departments in MNCs

Professional associations and organisations, such as The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), are crucial for Immigration Consultants interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Deliver optimum client service while under pressure from strict timelines and restrictive immigration laws
• Effective communication with clients to ensure they understand the process properly
• Work during odd times when communicating with relevant organisations located across the globe

Most Immigration Consultants have significant prior work experience as immigration paralegals, legal assistants, paralegals, or corporate immigration.

Familiarity with immigration laws, client accounts’ financial management, and other related professional services such as relocation and expatriate tax will help boost your chances of becoming an Immigration Consultant.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experts working in immigration consultancy to prove your commitment to prospective employers.

Prospective Immigration Consultants typically need an accredited bachelor’s degree in business, law, political science or public administration. A small number seek a master’s degree. Employers would prefer candidates who are conversant with relevant visa and immigration laws. 

Certification demonstrates an Immigration Consultant’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and an examination. Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and allow you to become an independent consultant.

Immigration Consultants need licensure and authorisation from their national immigration services to provide professional advice and assistance. Dissatisfied clients can approach the licensing organisation to ensure their consultant adheres to the legal standards, rules and regulations. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Immigration Consultants who may become Head Immigration Consultants taking on more managerial responsibilities.

Candidates with in-depth knowledge of Immigration laws will have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Immigration Consultant maintain their certification, licensure and registration. They build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Keep abreast of any changes to legislation and immigration laws to provide your clients with the best service. You will be regularly audited to ensure compliance with the existing code of conduct and renewal of the licence. 

Current Scenario

Immigration has been exponentially rising since the 2000s. The primary reasons for immigration are usually work and education, and it is expected that other factors like climate change will also significantly increase the rate of immigration. An Immigration Consultant would effectively serve the need of the hour by helping hopeful individuals legally immigrate to the country of their choice.

Immigration Laws

Immigration laws govern an individual’s right to enter and exit a country. They vary widely between governments and nations; the regulations may be updated frequently depending on the governmental climate and other factors.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Immigration Consultants have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

A full-time Immigration Consultant, on the other hand, has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

In 2018, China and India replaced Mexico as the dominant sources of immigration to the United States.

With research showing that one in thirty individuals worldwide may be an immigrant, Immigration Consultants play a critical role in ensuring these people make good on their hope to build better lives for themselves and their families in their adopted country.

Keep your ears open for even the tiniest change in regulations regarding immigration; thoroughly knowing the laws and being up-to-date with the changes is essential to help your clients.