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Immigration Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$56K - $65K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS Penn State Global has an opening for an International Immigration Specialist (International Faculty Adviser). This position works on a team of up to five other advisers and one ...

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Immigration Specialist information

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$36.5K

$61.9K

$83.5K

How much do immigration specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for immigration specialist in the United States is $61,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an immigration specialist?

Immigration specialists are typically lawyers or paralegals at law firms who assist foreign nationals with immigration procedures. They help applicants apply for work permits, citizenship, adoptions, or deal with homeland security issues. Specialists are different than immigration officers, who complete BASIC immigration officers’ training through USCIS and are often stationed at border entry, or in immigration offices. Job responsibilities of specialists can include submitting or appealing petitions, defending immigrants against fraud claims, or providing guidance about current policies to clients or their legal teams.

What does an immigration specialist do?

An Immigration Specialist assists individuals and organizations with navigating immigration laws and procedures. They help clients prepare and submit visa, green card, and citizenship applications, ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete. Immigration Specialists may also provide guidance on legal requirements, help clients understand their options, and stay updated on changes in immigration regulations. Their work is essential for those seeking to live, work, or study in a new country.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an immigration specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Immigration Specialist, you need a solid understanding of immigration laws, procedures, and documentation requirements, typically supported by a degree in law, international relations, or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, government immigration portals, and, in some cases, certifications such as Accredited Representative status is valuable. Strong communication, attention to detail, and cultural sensitivity are essential soft skills for interacting with diverse clients and ensuring accuracy. These skills and qualities are crucial for navigating complex regulations, advocating for clients, and ensuring compliance with legal standards.

What are some common challenges immigration specialists face when handling multiple client cases simultaneously?

Immigration Specialists often juggle several client cases at once, each with unique deadlines, documentation requirements, and legal complexities. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks is essential to avoid missing critical submission dates or overlooking important paperwork. Effective communication with clients and government agencies can also be challenging, as regulations frequently change and updates must be relayed promptly. Utilizing case management software and maintaining detailed records are common strategies to manage these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Immigration Specialist vs Paralegal?

AspectImmigration SpecialistParalegal
CredentialsOften requires immigration certifications or trainingTypically has paralegal certification or associate degree in legal studies
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, law firms, or corporate legal departmentsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, or government offices
Job FocusSpecializes in immigration laws, visa processing, and complianceSupports attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case management

While both roles work within legal and immigration contexts, Immigration Specialists focus specifically on immigration laws and procedures, often requiring specialized certifications. Paralegals provide broader legal support across various law areas, including immigration, but typically do not specialize solely in immigration law. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

What degree do you need to work in immigration specialist?

An immigration specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as law, international relations, or a related area. Relevant skills include knowledge of immigration laws and procedures, and some positions may require certification or specialized training.
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Immigration Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Immigration Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,882 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Senior Immigration Specialist, Scholar, Immigration Services & Support Center

Wake Forest University

Winston Salem, NC • On-site

$52K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage operations for the J-1 visa program for Exchange Visitors at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, including advising J-1 visa holders on immigration issues.

  • Develop and implement educational programs, orientations, seminars, and activities for international scholars to support their professional and cultural integration.

  • Maintain accurate J-1 records, prepare reports, and assist with compliance and data management related to international scholars.

Wake Forest University rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

External Applicants:
Please ensure all required documents are ready to upload before beginning your application, including your resume, cover letter, and any additional materials specified in the job description.
Cover Letter and Supporting Documents:
  • Navigate to the "My Experience" application page.
  • Locate the "Resume/CV" document upload section at the bottom of the page.
  • Use the "Select Files" button to upload your cover letter, resume, and any other required supporting documents. You can select multiple files.

Important Note: The "My Experience" page is the only opportunity to attach your cover letter, resume, and supporting documents. You will not be able to modify your application or add attachments after submission.
Current Employees:
Apply from your existing Workday account in the Jobs Hub. Do not apply from this website.
A cover letter is required for all positions; optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality roles unless otherwise specified.
Job Description Summary
The Senior Immigration Specialist, Scholar position performs duties in two primary functional areas of institutional immigration compliance and educational outreach. The Center for Immigration Services & Support (ISS) Senior Immigration Specialist's main immigration roles include managing the J-1 Exchange Visitor immigration compliance, processing, systems and data management and sharing at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (WFBMC) in support and collaboration with the Director and Associate Director of ISS. The second ISS Center functional area supported by the Senior Immigration Specialist includes responsibility for initiating professional and cultural programs that aid in the academic and professional growth of Wake Forest's international J-1 community at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (WFBMC).
*Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 18, 2026.
Job Description
This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.
Essential Functions:
  • Serves as Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) and manages operations for the J-1 visa program for Exchange Visitors at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (WFBMC); advises J-1 visa holders on all matters related to immigration issues.
  • Develops the visiting scholar program and advises departments on potential uses of the J-1 category.
  • Maintain a presence with various professional networks and keep up to date on relevant state and federal agency regulations and best practices in the field.
  • Advises international scholars in J-1 status at WFBMC, in areas of immigration, cultural, personal and financial concerns.
  • Manages J-1 records regarding international students, exchange visitors and dependent populations for accurate reporting to Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
  • Assist Associate Director with managing and maintaining J-1 Exchange Visitor Program manages Terra Dotta J Scholar document storage and profile creation.
  • Engages with the University community and offices to promote the role of ISS Center and the needs of international students and scholars.
  • Prepares reports including statistical data on international scholars for audits, on-site reviews, and analyzes data to enable strategic planning for immigration services based on population changes.
  • Creates, implements, manages, and assesses educational programs such as check-in, orientation, employment-based seminars, professional development courses and workshops, and other professional-based activities for international scholars.
  • Responsible for event programming and acculturation activities for international scholars.
  • Builds and maintains positive working relationships with various WFBMC partners.
  • Provides general office support and fields inquiries from students, faculty, and community. Responsible for own correspondence, filing, copying, document preparation, and reports, as needed.
  • Assists with special projects for the office as assigned by the Director.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Bachelor's degree plus three years related experience in immigration advising, serving as an ARO.
  • U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident (required to be authorized on government systems).
  • Knowledge of statutory and regulatory issues related to J, and H visas.
  • Knowledge of Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
  • Ability to keep current on all immigration laws, regulations, and policy matters.
  • Ability to set priorities and work independently.
  • Experience working with foreign national students, scholars, or employees in a university or non-profit setting.
  • Experience needed in program development and management.
  • Public speaking skills and experience presenting informational workshops to various campus audiences.
  • Ability to represent and advocate for international populations on campus.
  • Exceptional organizational and customer service skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to foster teamwork and collegiality in a small office environment and with internal and external constituents.
  • Proficiency with standard computer software (i.e. Microsoft Office suite, WordPress, and Google Apps).
  • Ability to quickly develop competency in ISS software programs and workflow management procedures.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Knowledge of additional employment based nonimmigrant visas (i.e. H-1B, PR, TN, O, and E).
  • Experience working in healthcare environment with immigration and human resource needs
  • Experience with Terra Dotta and Banner software systems or other web-based international student and scholar data management systems.
  • Proficiency in a foreign language.
  • Experience studying, living, or working abroad.

Accountabilities:
  • Responsible for own work.
  • May supervise student workers.
  • Train new ISS Center employees.

Physical Requirements:
  • Sedentary work primarily involves sitting/standing; communicating with others to exchange information; repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers; and assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.

Environmental Conditions:
  • No environmental conditions

Additional Job Description
Time Type Requirement
Full time
Note to Applicant:
This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.
In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.
Accommodations for Applicants
If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR@wfu.edu or (336) 758-4700.

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