• Paralegal Careers by Specialty
• Paralegal Programs by State

Becoming an Immigration Paralegal

Becoming a immigration paralegal does not require a degree or official license. However, obtaining an associates degree in paralegal studies or a paralegal certification would provide the training to make a candidate much more competitive in the job market. Certification programs are shorter and more intensive than an associates degree, and may require a bachelor’s degree in a related field, but not all programs require more than a high school degree. Additional training in immigration law is also available to gain a head start into this specialty.

Job Descriptions and Duties of an Immigration Paralegal

Paralegals must work under the supervision of an attorney, but they complete more and more work that was traditionally done by attorneys because it is more cost effective to delegate it to them. Furthermore, as a paralegal becomes more experienced in their field, they may take on more complex tasks.

Immigration paralegals usually work for government agencies, or for firms that focus on immigration law. An immigration paralegal works with immigration attorneys in the process of helping clients through the citizenship process or in deportation proceedings. Duties may include obtaining foreign documents, translation, obtaining visas, researching, summarizing cases, updating clients of progress, answering their questions, or preparing paperwork. Knowledge of other cultures or a second language is beneficial in this specialization, and some familiarity with immigration law will be needed.

Salary and Job Outlook for Immigration Paralegals

A paralegal’s salary can depend on their field of specialty, years of experience, region, and employer. According to indeed.com, immigration paralegals on average earn $49,000 per year. According to Legal Assistant Today, the average overall paralegal salary in 2007 was $52,979, which was a 3.7% increase for the year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the use of paralegals in the legal profession is continually increasing because it is cost-effective. Furthermore, demand for paralegals in certain specialties, such as immigration, is expected to increase as the population increases.

Online Paralegal Programs

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Kaplan University - School of Legal Studies: The Paralegal Studies Department at Kaplan University, is nationally recognized and offers the top paralegal programs in the country, including one of the leading paralegal associate degree programs. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Graduates with work experience are eligible to sit for the NFPA Pace exam.

AAS in Paralegal Studies
BS in Paralegal Studies
Advanced Start in BS Paralegal Studies
Advanced Start in BS Legal Studies
BS in Legal Studies

Virginia College: Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), which is an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Colorado Technical University/Stonecliffe College: Stonecliffe College Online offers one of the most up to date and accredited paralegal associate degree programs in the country. Students are educated in document organization systems, handling document production, how to write legal correspondence and other relevant skills necessary for paralegal career preparation. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

A.S. Paralegal Studies

Everest University Online: The Everest University Online paralegal associate degree program is widely recognized for graduating some of the most qualified and successful paralegals in the country. Let Everest help you pursue your paralegal education and career goals. Request information today! Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Paralegal Associate's Degree
Paralegal Bachelor's Degree

George Washington University: This program is identical to the on-campus master's program offered at GW, but offered entirely online..

Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies

Hodges University: Graduates of the Paralegal program are eligible to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam.

Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Keiser University: E-Campus Online Programs. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, which is recognized as a national accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Minnesota School of Business: Request information from the online paralegal program today. Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Certificate in Paralegal
Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Paralegal

Post University: Post University is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), a national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Board of Education.

Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Associate's in Legal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Westwood College: You can earn an Associate's degree in Paralegal Studies in as little as 20 months. Westwood College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCS).

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

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