Meet the Team: Nizar Kafrouni

Thanks for joining us today, Mr Kafrouni. Could you please start by telling us a little bit of general information about yourself??

NK: My name is Nizar Kafouni. I live in Michigan. I first obtained a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in law from Lebanon. Then, I moved to the United States in 2015, where I received a master’s degree and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School and the University of Hawaii School of Law, respectively. I am a member of the bar association in Lebanon and New York. I? have handled over 600 RFEs, including NIW, EB1A, and O1 RFEs. Currently, I am an Associate Attorney at Colombo and Hurd, specializing in responding to RFEs.?

And why did you decide to practice law in the field of immigration???

NK: I decided to practice law in the field of immigration due to my personal experiences, passion for social justice, and desire to make a tangible impact on individuals’ lives. As an immigrant myself, I understand the importance and concerns associated with the immigration process and its complexity. This inspired me to help others navigate the complex procedures of immigrating to the United States. Additionally, immigration law allows me to advocate for immigrants and help them achieve their dreams of living and working in the United States, which is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Interacting with immigrants from diverse backgrounds also broadens one’s perspective and is very enriching. The immigration field is constantly evolving, providing ongoing challenges and opportunities for learning and growth.?

I’d love to speak with you about one of your favorite RFE approvals – I know you have so many but could you tell us about one of your favorites???

NK: Generally, receiving an RFE adds an extra layer of concern, and many RFEs are associated with the lack of training of some USCIS officers. At the RFE stage, we address the client’s concerns and work closely with them, allowing us to understand their goals and what they plan to achieve in the United States. Therefore, it is very difficult to select only one case. However, one particular case comes to mind: this client has a degree in Dentistry and a diploma in Dental Aesthetics. Her proposed endeavor was unique – to foster and enhance oral health in underserved communities in the United States, particularly among immigrants and survivors of sexual violence. I believe her project will have a significant impact on the community. The client and her husband were a young couple, and during our initial meeting, they told us that they had just found out she was pregnant, which was truly a wonderful moment. The NIW approval became more important than ever for their family.??

What elements were key to achieve the approval???

NK: The initial meeting with the client was critical as we discussed the RFE notice, the timeline for the response, the challenges raised, the pieces of evidence needed, and how we would address the USCIS officer’s concerns. For this approval, explaining the financial elements of success was the key evidence as it illustrated to the officer the capacity in which the client would advance her proposed endeavor.?

How was the interaction with the client during the process???

NK: The interaction was exceptional. The client and her husband were highly dedicated to the case and put in significant effort to secure the evidence we discussed. She maintained a very positive attitude and was highly cooperative throughout. Her willingness to engage and promptly respond to requests for more information or additional documentation was immensely helpful.?

And how did you, your team, and the client feel when the case was approved???

NK: We were overjoyed to receive the approval for this case! Knowing that they were expecting a baby made it even more gratifying. I can only imagine the immense joy they must have felt upon receiving such wonderful news for their family!?

What is your favorite part of being an immigration attorney at Colombo & Hurd??

NK: Well, there are many things that I like about working at Colombo & Hurd, but one of my favorites is our close collaboration with colleagues and our continuous support for each other as a team. Additionally, receiving approval for cases is rewarding, knowing that the efforts we put into working on a case have come to fruition.?

What do you like to do in your free time, when you’re not helping your clients obtain green cards???

NK: I play basketball, volleyball, and tennis. I also enjoy kayaking in the summer, and spending time with family is important to me.?

Your story and insights are incredibly valuable, thank you so much for sharing.?