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How to Become an Immigration Paralegal

The law has grown increasingly complex over the years, making it necessary for paralegals to specialize in one area such as immigration. These specialized job duties are typically found at the larger law firms, corporate legal departments, and government offices, since smaller firms require paralegals to perform a wider variety of duties.

Required Education for an Immigration Paralegal
You can become a paralegal in a few different ways. Most people enroll in a two-year paralegal program at a community college or online and earn an associate degree. Those who already have a college degree can opt to simply enroll in a certificate program, which provides you with intensive training over the course of a few months.

Some associate and bachelor degree paralegal programs offer additional training in various specialties like immigration, or you can again opt to receive your training through a certification program. Immigration law is complex, and your courses should include:
  • Admissibility
  • Asylum
  • Deportation
  • Family visas
  • Naturalization
  • Non-immigrant visa categories and requirements
  • Work visas and preference categories
If possible, you should find a program that offers job placement services or internship opportunities.

Salary and Benefits of Being an Immigration Paralegal
Employment for paralegals is expected to increase by 22% from 2006-2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This means job opportunities for all paralegals should be excellent. With thousands of immigrants wishing to enter the U.S. each year, and even more who are already here, this one specialty in particular should to continue to grow as well.

A paralegal earns an average annual wage of $48,790.
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