Top 10 Immigration Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important factor for immigration specialists in the job market. They demonstrate a specialist’s knowledge, expertise and commitment to their profession. Certifications provide assurance to employers that the specialist is qualified and competent in their field of work. Furthermore, certifications can help distinguish a specialist from their peers and give them an edge over competitors when seeking employment. Additionally, certifications can be used as evidence of professional development and continuing education, which can be beneficial when pursuing promotions or other career opportunities. Finally, certifications may also be required by certain organizations or employers in order to practice as an immigration specialist.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Immigration Specialists and explain how they can help advance a career in immigration.

What are Immigration Specialist Certifications?

Immigration specialist certification is a program designed to help individuals become knowledgeable and certified in the field of immigration law. It provides training and certification to individuals who work in the field of immigration, or those who wish to pursue a career in this area. Immigration specialists are responsible for helping immigrants with their legal matters, including visa applications, green card applications, naturalization petitions, asylum requests, and other related issues. With an immigration specialist certification, professionals can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively guide clients through the complex immigration process.

The immigration specialist certification program covers topics such as immigration laws and regulations, international human rights law, refugee law and policy, family-based petitions, removal proceedings/deportation defense, ethics in immigration practice and more. The curriculum also includes an overview of current trends in immigration law as well as strategies for working with clients from diverse backgrounds. In some cases, students may also be required to take additional courses or complete an internship for hands-on experience.

Having an immigration specialist certification can benefit both employers and employees alike. Employers will have access to qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about the latest laws and regulations pertaining to immigration matters. This can help employers make informed decisions when dealing with their employees’ legal matters as well as ensure compliance with all relevant laws. Additionally, it can open up opportunities for new job prospects within the field by demonstrating expertise in the subject matter. For employees seeking a career in this field or those already employed but looking to advance their knowledge base, obtaining this certification can provide them with a competitive edge over other applicants when applying for positions within the industry.

Pro Tip: Make sure you are obtaining a certification from an accredited and reputable immigration specialist program. This will ensure that your certification is valid and respected in the legal community. Additionally, make sure to stay up-to-date on any changes to immigration laws and regulations, as these can significantly affect your ability to practice as an immigration specialist.

Related: What does an Immigration Specialist do?

Top 10 Immigration Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Immigration Specialists today.

1. Certified Immigration Specialist (CIS)

Certified Immigration Specialist (CIS) is a professional designation for individuals who specialize in providing advice and assistance to individuals, families, and businesses on immigration matters. The CIS designation is awarded by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) after an individual has successfully completed an extensive training program and passed a rigorous examination.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the certification process. To become certified, applicants must first complete an approved AILA course of study which includes at least 24 hours of classroom instruction and 8 hours of online instruction. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam given by AILA.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of course chosen and other factors. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 for the entire certification process.

Once certified, CIS professionals are expected to stay up-to-date with changes in immigration law and policy as well as maintain their knowledge base through continuing education courses.

2. Certified Global Migration Professional (CGMP)

Certified Global Migration Professional (CGMP) is a professional designation offered by the International Association for Immigration Professionals (IAIP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in global migration and immigration management. The CGMP certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and experience in global migration, including topics such as international law, human rights, labor mobility, and refugee protection.

The CGMP certification process typically takes around three months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documentation. Once approved, applicants will be required to complete a series of online courses and exams covering topics such as international law, human rights, labor mobility and refugee protection. Upon successful completion of the courses and exams, applicants will receive their CGMP certification.

The cost of obtaining the CGMP certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. Generally speaking, most countries charge a fee ranging from $200-$500 USD for the application process plus any additional fees associated with taking the online courses and exams.

3. Certified Immigration Lawyer (CIL)

Certified Immigration Lawyer (CIL) is a designation given to attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in immigration law. The CIL designation is awarded by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), which is the national bar association for immigration lawyers. In order to become certified, an attorney must meet certain criteria, including passing an exam and having at least three years of experience practicing immigration law.

In order to take the exam, an applicant must first submit an application to AILA and pay a fee. Once the application is approved, the applicant must pass both a written and oral exam administered by AILA. The written portion covers topics such as immigration laws, regulations, procedures and ethics; while the oral portion tests an applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The entire process can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on how quickly the applicant completes all of the necessary steps. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on how many exams are taken and whether or not any additional courses are required in order to prepare for them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 for all of the necessary fees and costs associated with becoming certified.

4. Certified Immigration Consultant (CIC)

A Certified Immigration Consultant (CIC) is a professional who has been certified by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). The CIC designation is the highest level of certification available to immigration consultants in Canada. It requires a minimum of three years of full-time experience in immigration consulting, as well as successful completion of an approved educational program and passing an examination.

It typically takes about six months to obtain the CIC designation, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances. To become a CIC, applicants must first complete a recognized educational program in immigration consulting and then pass an exam administered by the ICCRC. Once both requirements have been met, applicants must submit their application for certification along with supporting documentation.

The cost for obtaining the CIC designation depends on several factors, including the type of educational program taken and any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 or more to become a Certified Immigration Consultant.

5. Certified Immigration Advisor (CIA)

A Certified Immigration Advisor (CIA) is a professional who has been certified by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) in New Zealand. The IAA is an independent body that regulates immigration advice in New Zealand. To become a CIA, applicants must first complete an approved training programme and pass the IAA’s certification exam.

The CIA certification process typically takes around three months to complete. Applicants must first apply for the certification online through the IAA website and pay a fee of NZ$250. Once their application has been accepted, they will then be required to attend an approved training course and pass the IAA’s certification exam. The training course can take up to two weeks to complete, depending on the provider, and there may be additional fees associated with it. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CIA certificate from the IAA.

Once certified, CIAs are able to provide immigration advice in New Zealand and abroad, as well as represent clients in immigration matters before government authorities such as Immigration New Zealand (INZ). They must also abide by a Code of Conduct which sets out standards of practice that all CIAs must adhere to when providing immigration advice or services.

6. Canadian Immigration Consultant (CIC)

A Canadian Immigration Consultant (CIC) is a professional who provides advice and assistance to individuals and families wishing to immigrate to Canada. CICs are regulated by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).

The process of becoming a CIC requires applicants to pass an exam, have at least three years of experience in immigration services, and complete an ethics course. The exam covers topics such as Canadian immigration law, procedure, and policy. Applicants must also submit a criminal background check and provide proof of identity.

To become a CIC typically takes between 6-12 months. This includes the time it takes to prepare for the exam, take the exam, complete the required courses, submit all necessary documents, and receive approval from ICCRC.

The cost for becoming a CIC varies depending on the type of service you require. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 - $3,000 CAD for the entire process. This includes fees for taking the exam ($500), completing the ethics course ($200), submitting your application ($400 - $600), and registering with ICCRC ($300).

7. American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is a voluntary bar association of attorneys who practice and teach immigration law. AILA members represent thousands of immigrants, employers, and families in the United States. The organization provides education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and other resources to its members. AILA also works with Congress, the White House, federal agencies, state and local governments, the media, and the public to improve the nation's immigration system.

To become a member of AILA you must be an attorney who has been admitted to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction or foreign country. You must also have at least two years of experience practicing immigration law or related fields within the last five years.

It usually takes about four to six weeks for your application to be processed by AILA’s Membership Department after it is received. Once approved you will receive a welcome packet with information on how to access member services such as online resources and discounts on continuing legal education programs.

The cost for joining AILA depends on which membership type you choose: Regular Member ($395/year), Associate Member ($150/year), Student Member ($50/year), or Retired Member ($125/year).

8. National Association of Foreign Student Advisers (NAFSA)

The National Association of Foreign Student Advisers (NAFSA) is a professional organization that provides resources and guidance to individuals who work with international students. It was founded in 1948 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most respected organizations for international student affairs professionals.

NAFSA offers members access to a wide range of professional development opportunities, including an annual conference, webinars, publications, and other resources. Members also receive discounts on products and services related to international education. In addition, NAFSA is involved in advocacy efforts at the federal level to ensure that international students have access to quality educational opportunities in the United States.

It typically takes about two weeks to become a NAFSA member after submitting an application form online or through mail. The membership fee varies depending on the type of membership you choose; individual memberships are $125 per year while institutional memberships cost $500 per year.

9. International Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (IAPIC)

The International Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (IAPIC) is a non-profit organization that provides professional development and certification to immigration consultants. IAPIC was established in 1999 as an independent, international organization dedicated to the promotion of excellence in the practice of immigration consulting.

To become certified by IAPIC, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of three years’ experience in immigration consulting and passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as legal principles, regulations, procedures and ethics related to immigration law. The exam is offered twice a year and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In addition to the exam, applicants must also submit a detailed application form which includes information about their educational background, work experience and references. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive their certification from IAPIC which is valid for two years.

The cost of becoming certified by IAPIC varies depending on the country in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

10. American Immigration Council’s Accredited Representative Program (AICAR).

The American Immigration Council’s Accredited Representative Program (AICAR) is a program designed to help individuals and families seeking immigration benefits in the United States. Through AICAR, accredited representatives provide free or low-cost legal advice and representation to those who cannot afford an attorney.

To become an accredited representative, applicants must pass a background check and demonstrate knowledge of U.S. immigration law by taking an online course and passing an exam administered by the American Immigration Council. The course covers topics such as eligibility for immigration benefits, how to prepare applications, and how to represent clients in court proceedings.

It typically takes 4-6 months to complete the accreditation process. Applicants must pay a fee of $300 for the online course plus $50 for the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be eligible to apply for accreditation with the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). This application process can take up to 6 months and requires additional fees of $500-$1,000 depending on the type of accreditation sought.

Once accredited, representatives are required to maintain their knowledge of U.S. immigration law through continuing education courses offered by AICAR or other approved organizations. They must also adhere to ethical standards set forth by EOIR in order to remain accredited.

Do You Really Need a Immigration Specialist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is: it depends. Whether or not you need an immigration specialist certificate to practice as an immigration specialist depends on what type of work you plan on doing and in which country. In some countries, such as the United States, a certification program is available for those who want to specialize in immigration law and policy. This program provides a comprehensive education in the field, including courses on U.S. immigration law and policy, case management, and ethics. The certification also requires passing an exam administered by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

In other countries, there are no formal requirements to become an immigration specialist; however, many employers still require a certain level of expertise when hiring someone for this position. For example, a non-profit organization may prefer to hire someone with experience working on immigration issues or have a background in social work or human rights advocacy. Depending on the specifics of your job search, having a certification might be necessary to demonstrate your qualifications for the role.

Overall, whether or not you need an immigration specialist certificate depends on your specific interests and career goals. If you are interested in working as an Immigration Specialist in the United States then obtaining AILA's certification is highly recommended; however if you plan on working with immigrants in another country then it may not be required but could still be beneficial depending on the employer’s expectations.

Related: Immigration Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Immigration Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is an Immigration Specialist Certification?

A1: An Immigration Specialist Certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of immigration law and policy. It demonstrates a mastery of the principles and rules governing immigration and emigration, as well as knowledge of the processes involved in obtaining visas, green cards, and other forms of legal residency.

Q2: How do I become certified as an Immigration Specialist?

A2: To become certified as an Immigration Specialist, you must complete a qualifying program from an accredited institution. This can include a certificate or degree program in immigration law, or a specialized training course. The program must be approved by the American Bar Association or another relevant accrediting body.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming an Immigration Specialist?

A3: Becoming certified as an Immigration Specialist offers several benefits, including increased credibility among employers and clients, improved job prospects in the field of immigration law, and access to specialized training programs. Additionally, it provides recognition for your expertise in this area of law.

Q4: How long does it take to become certified?

A4: The length of time required to become certified will vary depending on the type and scope of certification sought. Generally speaking, most programs require at least six months to two years to complete.

Q5: Is there any cost associated with becoming certified?

A5: Yes - costs will vary depending on the specific program you enroll in and may include tuition fees, exam fees, materials fees, etc. Be sure to research all associated costs before enrolling in any certification program.