Business immigration is evolving rapidly, particularly in response to shifts in government policy and the changing global economy. One significant trend is the increasing demand for skilled workers in STEM fields. Companies are competing for top talent, which has made visa categories like the H-1B and O-1 more critical than ever. However, with annual caps and increased scrutiny on applications, businesses are finding it harder to secure the visas they need.

Another trend is the growing reliance on remote work, which raises unique challenges for immigration compliance. For example, if a foreign worker on an H-1B visa starts working remotely in a different state, the employer needs to ensure compliance with both federal and state-level requirements.

To adapt, businesses are becoming more proactive in their immigration strategies. Many are exploring alternative visa options, like the L-1 for intra-company transferees or the E-2 for investors. At the same time, they’re investing in compliance systems to avoid costly errors. My role is to guide them through this process, ensuring they can access the talent they need while staying compliant.

Family-based visas and citizenship applications often come with emotional stakes that make them particularly challenging. One of the biggest hurdles is the backlog in processing times. For example, it’s not uncommon for family-based green card applicants to wait years for their cases to be resolved. This can be incredibly frustrating for families who just want to be reunited.

Another challenge is the complexity of the documentation required. A single error or omission can delay an application or even result in a denial. For citizenship applications, people often underestimate the importance of preparation, especially when it comes to demonstrating continuous residence or passing the naturalization interview.

I help clients overcome these challenges by providing clear guidance at every step. For family-based visas, I ensure the documentation is thorough and error-free, and I stay on top of case updates to address delays or issues proactively. For citizenship, I work with clients to prepare for their interviews and address any concerns about eligibility. My goal is to make the process as smooth as possible while giving clients the confidence to move forward.

Serving as Chair of the AILA Mid South Chapter has been a privilege and an invaluable learning experience. It’s given me a deeper understanding of the challenges immigration attorneys face across the region and the tools they need to succeed. I regularly collaborate with other attorneys to share best practices, stay updated on policy changes, and address issues that impact our clients collectively.

This role has also enhanced my advocacy work. By working with AILA’s national leadership, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with policymakers and push for reforms that make the immigration system more efficient and fair. These experiences shape how I approach my own cases, as I’m constantly thinking about the broader implications of the work we do.

For my clients, this leadership role means they’re benefiting from a practitioner who’s deeply connected to the field. I stay on top of trends and developments, ensuring that the strategies I provide are informed by the latest insights. Ultimately, being part of AILA’s leadership allows me to advocate not just for individual clients but for systemic improvements that benefit everyone navigating the immigration system.

Staying ahead of policy changes is critical in immigration law because even minor adjustments can have significant consequences for clients. I dedicate a substantial amount of time to keeping up with new regulations, case law, and government enforcement priorities. As a member of AILA’s Board of Governors, I have access to valuable resources and discussions with top immigration attorneys nationwide, which helps me stay informed.

Additionally, I actively participate in webinars, conferences, and legislative updates to ensure I’m always aware of what’s coming. Writing for my blog, The Immigration Answer Man, is another way I keep myself sharp—researching and addressing real-world immigration questions keeps me engaged with the latest developments.

For my clients, this vigilance translates to better outcomes. When a new policy is announced, I can quickly identify how it might impact their cases and adjust strategies accordingly. For example, during the recent changes to public charge rules, I worked closely with my clients to ensure their applications met the updated requirements. Being proactive allows me to protect my clients from delays, denials, or unexpected challenges, giving them the confidence to move forward in an unpredictable legal environment.

Technology has become an indispensable part of modern immigration law practice. At Siskind Suser, we use cutting-edge tools to streamline case management, improve client communication, and ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations. For example, case tracking software allows us to monitor deadlines and ensure timely filings for clients with multiple visa applications or renewals.

Another area where technology has been transformative is in document preparation and management. Immigration cases require extensive paperwork, and using secure cloud-based systems helps us collect, review, and store documents more efficiently. This not only speeds up the process but also reduces the likelihood of errors or missing information.

Looking to the future, I see technology continuing to shape the field through innovations like artificial intelligence. AI tools can already assist with analyzing legal texts, flagging potential issues in applications, and even predicting case outcomes based on past decisions. While technology will never replace the need for skilled attorneys, it’s becoming a powerful tool for enhancing accuracy and efficiency in our work. Ultimately, leveraging technology allows us to serve clients better, giving them faster and more reliable solutions in an increasingly complex immigration landscape.

The most fulfilling part of my work is knowing that I’m making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Every case represents a unique story—whether it’s a family reuniting after years apart, a business securing critical talent, or an individual achieving their dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. Being part of those journeys is incredibly rewarding.

One case that stands out involved helping a business owner from abroad secure an E-2 investor visa to establish a company in the U.S. Not only did this allow the client to build their dream business, but it also created jobs for local workers and contributed to the community’s economic growth. Cases like that remind me that immigration law isn’t just about legal processes—it’s about opportunities and connections that enrich everyone involved.

The challenges of immigration law can be daunting, but seeing the joy and relief on my clients’ faces when their goals are realized makes it all worthwhile. It’s a constant reminder of why I chose this field and why I’m so passionate about helping people navigate it.

• Ari Sauer sees immigration law as more than paperwork—it’s about helping people create better futures and seize new opportunities.
• Ari works closely with businesses and families to tackle changing immigration challenges, finding practical solutions for visas, compliance, and frustrating delays.
• By combining his leadership experience and smart use of technology, Ari makes the immigration process smoother and keeps his clients ahead of the curve.

‍