A Year of Growth and Gratitude in Immigration Law
Welcome to another edition of Dear Sophie, the trusted advice column tackling pressing immigration questions for tech professionals and entrepreneurs. As we reflect on 2020’s transformative events, one truth stands clear: our global interconnectedness has never been more apparent.
“Your questions fuel a knowledge exchange that empowers individuals worldwide to transcend borders,” says Sophie Alcorn, a leading Silicon Valley immigration attorney. “Whether you’re in HR, a founder, or an aspiring tech professional, I welcome your questions for future columns.”
Key Immigration Developments in 2020
Digital Progress in H-1B Processing
Among 2020’s silver linings was the Trump administration’s digitization of the H-1B lottery—a long-awaited modernization that streamlined a historically cumbersome process.
A New Era Under Biden-Harris
With the Biden administration poised to take office, we anticipate renewed focus on:
- Expanding immigration pathways
- Reaffirming America’s legacy as a land of opportunity
- Recognizing immigrants’ vital contributions to innovation and economic growth
Professional Milestones Worth Celebrating
Client Success Stories
This year brought remarkable victories despite unprecedented challenges:
Startup Talent Retention: Secured an O-1A visa for an E-2 visa holder transitioning to a promising startup during pandemic uncertainties.
Entrepreneurial Freedom: Guided a corporate employee through self-petitioning for an EB-2 NIW green card, enabling their startup launch.
Green Card Portability: Protected a founder’s immigration status during a critical $6M funding round and company transition.
Pandemic Perseverance: Facilitated an E-3 visa approval and U.S. relocation despite consulate closures.
J-1 Rescue: Prevented a two-year home residency requirement for a J-1 visa holder facing layoffs, securing permanent status instead.
Expanding Educational Resources
Launched the Extraordinary Ability Bootcamp, an online course demystifying O-1A and EB-1A/EB-2 NIW pathways. Complementing this, our popular podcast Immigration Law for Tech Startups continues sharing actionable insights.
Why Gratitude Matters in Immigration
2020 taught us that:
- Resilience creates opportunity: Even in bleak moments, progress is possible
- Preparation enables success: Our 64-question attorney checklist helps applicants start strong
- Community drives change: Every client story reinforces immigration’s transformative power
Looking Ahead with Optimism
As we enter 2021, I’m energized by:
- The tech community’s unwavering innovation
- Expanding avenues for global talent
- The privilege of helping clients turn aspirations into reality
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. In immigration as in life, challenges often precede breakthroughs. Here’s to the opportunities ahead.
Joyfully,
Sophie
Have an immigration question? Submit it here. Note: Information provided is general guidance, not legal advice. See full disclaimer.
Missed last week’s column? Read about H-1B co-founders and Delaware C Corps.
