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The Importance of the Initial Consultation: Building Your Immigration Path Together

  • Michelle Abeckjerr, Esq.
  • Mar 26
  • 3 min read

At Abeckjerr Immigration Law, we strongly believe that an effective immigration strategy begins with a transparent, well-guided conversation. The initial consultation isn’t just a meeting to gather information—it’s the most important moment to lay the foundation for a realistic, strategic, and personalized plan.

This is especially true in business immigration processes, where each professional profile and business goal is different. It's essential to understand who you are, what you want to achieve, and how we can reach that goal together.


Why Is the Initial Consultation So Important?

During the initial consultation, we analyze your full profile, evaluate your professional goals, and thoroughly review your immigration history.

This space allows us to:

  • Identify viable immigration opportunities (E-2, O-1, EB-1, among others).

  • Detect potential legal obstacles or common issues (such as unlawful presence or unauthorized employment).

  • Define a clear legal strategy, with realistic expectations regarding timelines, documentation, and outcomes.

It is also the moment for clients to understand how the U.S. immigration system really works. Unlike other areas of law, in immigration, attorneys are legally required to certify that all information submitted to the government is truthful. This means the facts cannot be "dressed up"—we must work with the truth and build a strong legal strategy from it.


Designing a Strategy Just for You

Every person is unique. Every visa is too. At Abeckjerr Immigration Law, we understand there is no universal solution.

Depending on your profile, we may explore options such as:


E-2 Visa – Treaty Investors

Ideal for citizens of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. (such as Argentina, Chile, Colombia, among others), the E-2 visa allows a foreign national to come to the United States to direct and develop a business in which they have invested a substantial amount of capital.

Key components of the E-2 visa:

  • Nationality of the applicant: Must be a citizen of a treaty country.

  • Substantial investment: There is no official minimum amount, but a significant initial investment is generally recommended (estimated minimum: $100,000–$150,000 USD, depending on the type of business).

  • Control of the business: The investor must own at least 50% or have operational control.

  • Real and active business: The investment must not be marginal or speculative.

This visa is indefinitely renewable, as long as the business remains active and continues to meet the requirements.


O-1 Visa – Extraordinary Ability

Designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in areas such as the arts, music, sports, business, science, or education, the O-1 visa is an excellent alternative for outstanding professionals who wish to work temporarily in the U.S.

Key components of the O-1 visa:

  • Proven recognition: You must demonstrate a sustained record of national or international achievement.

  • Strong evidence: You must meet at least 3 of 8 specific criteria (awards, press, leadership, judging panels, among others).

  • Petitioner: A U.S. agent or employer must file the petition.

  • Detailed documentation: It is crucial to submit letters of recommendation, publications, contracts, and proof of recognition.

The O-1 visa is especially useful for artists, creators, innovative entrepreneurs, and recognized executives.


The Key to Success: Planning and Transparency

Many clients tell us: “I didn’t know I had to tell everything.” And our response is always the same: yes, you must tell us everything.

Hiding unauthorized employment, unlawful presence, or incomplete information can put the entire strategy at risk. Our commitment is to protect your case, not judge you. But in order to do that, we need you to trust us from the beginning.

During the initial consultation:

  • We help you understand which type of visa best fits your situation.

  • We explain the steps to follow, the estimated timelines, and the associated costs.

  • We create a personalized plan based on your goals—whether that’s starting a business, continuing an artistic career, or establishing a branch of your company in the U.S.

More Than a Consultation: A Shared Plan

At Abeckjerr Immigration Law, we don’t believe in shortcuts or empty promises. Our goal is to design a plan that is real, sustainable, and tailored to you.

We know immigration processes can be long and stressful, and that USCIS wait times are not always predictable. But we also know that with planning, honesty, and strategy, it’s possible to go far.


Are you ready to begin your immigration journey? Schedule your initial consultation with us and let’s build the next chapter of your story in the United States—together.

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