How can you build a network of immigration and visa experts to support global talent acquisition?

Determine your organization's specific talent acquisition needs and goals. Understand the type of talent you want to attract and the countries from which you plan to hire. Establish an internal team responsible for managing the immigration and visa process. This team should include HR professionals, legal experts, and individuals with experience in global mobility.

Research immigration and visa experts, law firms, consultants, or agencies that specialize in the regions or countries where you plan to recruit talent. Look for those with experience in the specific industries or job roles you're targeting.

Depending on the scale of your hiring needs, you may need to hire in-house experts or partner with external immigration and visa experts. Hire immigration and visa specialists who are experienced in the regions and countries you're recruiting from. This approach provides more control and customization.

Establish partnerships or contracts with selected experts or firms. Clearly define the scope of work, fees, and any exclusivity agreements.

Reach out to an immigration lawyer/firm with proven experience. It is best to see their reviews (e.g. google, LinkedIn) first to see what their past clients think about their service. You also consider other things: any quality mark e.g. accreditation they have, their ranking in Legal 500 / Chambers and Partners (not a must) etc. Most importantly, once you have shortlisted the lawyers/firms, you need to book an appointment and speak to the shortlisted lawyers/firms regarding your needs. Finally, select a firm based on your experience with them and also based on your budget and their quotes. It is best to be with one firm, however, if you are not happy with their services, it is always best to consider others.

Partner with immigration law firms that specialize in corporate immigration. They can provide expert guidance and services tailored to your needs. Consider working with global mobility service providers who can offer a range of services, including visa processing, immigration compliance, and cultural integration support.

Build a network of immigration and visa experts by attending industry conferences, seminars, and workshops. Networking can help you identify and connect with experts who can provide valuable insights and support.

It is best to be with one firm and build and maintain strong and trusting relationships with someone who is either the owner/partner or a longstanding senior manager of the firm as employees come and go and it should not affect your talent acquisition. Such a person should know about needs and you will save a lot of time by instructing the same firm/lawyer. However, if you are not happy with their services please let them know and, if things are not improved, it is always best to consider others. There is absolutely no reason to suffer in silence.

Foster a culture of knowledge sharing within your organization. Encourage your immigration and visa experts to share insights, best practices, and updates with the wider HR and management teams. Regularly gather feedback from employees, candidates, and the experts in your network to identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to refine your talent acquisition and immigration processes.

It is really good to see the firms/lawyers are familiar with new updates/changes in immigration law i.e. whether they write a blog on the new changes or post videos on social media explaining the new changes regarding the relevant immigration rules.