Foreign languages & your attorney for employment based visas

A common problem that I have encountered in my practice in the areas of employment based visas relates to the foreign language barrier that often can exist between myself and the client. I speak three languages fluently but I have to admit that many of the sophisticated terms often used in each language can pose a barrier to my oral communication with a client. What I have learned from observing some of the most intelligent PhDs, MDs, and Engineers, and other highly educated persons, is that no matter how fluent in a language you are or how much education you may have received, there will always be writing barriers when you are dealing with foreign languages.


Last week, I was at an immigration interview at a local USCIS field office where a Hispanic family with very limited English language capabilities showed up at an interview with no interpreter. Luckily for them, an interpreter was available in the waiting area and was eager to help this family. Not all people are so lucky. The moral of the story: If you're not sure of the communication or your English language capabilities, please be open to bringing an interpreter to help you discuss your case , whether it is for an interview or to merely speak with your attorney. Afterall, this is your future. You should take any step possible to ensure you have all knowledge of what you are getting into.