As a major hub of commerce, culture, and community, Illinois and particularly Chicago has long been a destination for immigrants from across the globe. Navigating the complexities of immigration law here requires skilled and dedicated legal counsel. To guide you, we have selected the 10 best immigration law firms in the Prairie State, chosen for their outstanding reputations, specialized expertise, and commitment to their clients.

1. Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C.

As one of Chicago’s oldest and most respected immigration law firms, Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan is an institution. For over 40 years, they have provided exceptional legal services in nearly every area of immigration law, from complex business visas and corporate compliance to family petitions and federal court litigation.

The firm’s team of highly experienced attorneys includes past presidents of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and adjunct law professors. This deep bench of expertise allows them to handle the most sophisticated cases with a level of skill and professionalism that is second to none. They are known for their ethical standards and their long history of successful outcomes.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are seeking a firm with an impeccable, long-standing reputation and deep expertise across all facets of immigration law, this is a top choice. They offer the assurance that your case is being handled by some of the most respected attorneys in the field.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Full-Service (Business, Family, Litigation, and Complex Cases).
• Ideal For: Clients seeking a highly reputable firm with decades of proven experience.
• Google Rating:7 Stars (140+ reviews)

2. Kempster, Corcoran, Quiceno & Lenz-Calvo, Ltd.

This firm is renowned for its unwavering commitment to family-based immigration, humanitarian cases, and removal defense. Kempster, Corcoran, Quiceno & Lenz-Calvo is a mission-driven practice dedicated to serving immigrant communities with compassion and exceptional legal skill.

Their multilingual team has extensive experience in the most personal and often difficult areas of immigration law, including asylum, VAWA petitions, U-Visas, and complex family-based waivers. They are known for their tireless advocacy and for building strong, trusting relationships with their clients, guiding them through stressful situations with empathy and expertise.

Why Choose This Firm?

For those navigating a sensitive humanitarian or family case, this firm’s deep experience and compassionate approach make them a perfect advocate. They are a trusted partner for families and the most vulnerable members of the immigrant community.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Family Immigration, Humanitarian Relief (Asylum, VAWA), and Waivers.
• Ideal For: Families and individuals with sensitive or complex humanitarian cases.
• Google Rating:8 Stars (150+ reviews)

3. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C.

Scott D. Pollock & Associates is a premier Chicago firm with a formidable reputation in both business immigration and complex litigation. They provide sophisticated legal strategies for corporate clients, as well as aggressive representation for individuals in federal court and removal proceedings.

The firm’s attorneys are known for their sharp legal minds and their ability to handle high-stakes cases. They assist businesses with the full range of employment-based visas, from H-1Bs and L-1s to PERM and O-1s. On the litigation side, they are not afraid to challenge government denials and delays in federal court through actions like Mandamus lawsuits.

Why Choose This Firm?

This firm is an excellent choice for businesses needing sophisticated immigration counsel or individuals whose cases require a strong litigator. Their dual expertise in corporate and litigation matters provides a powerful advantage.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Business Immigration and Federal Court Litigation.
• Ideal For: Corporate clients and individuals with cases requiring litigation.
• Google Rating:7 Stars (120+ reviews)

4. Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC

When it comes to deportation and removal defense, Kriezelman Burton & Associates is one of the most recognized and respected names in Illinois. This firm is almost exclusively dedicated to defending immigrants in court, from bond hearings and asylum trials to complex appeals before the BIA and federal circuit courts.

With decades of combined experience, their attorneys are seasoned litigators who thrive in the courtroom. They have successfully defended thousands of clients facing deportation, including those with serious criminal convictions. Their reputation for aggressive and creative defense strategies is well-known among immigration judges and government attorneys.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you or a loved one is detained by ICE or in removal proceedings, this firm’s singular focus and extensive litigation experience are exactly what you need. They are powerful advocates dedicated to fighting for their clients’ right to remain in the U.S.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Deportation Defense, Immigration Court, and Appeals.
• Ideal For: Individuals facing any stage of removal proceedings.
• Google Rating:8 Stars (250+ reviews)

5. Robert D. Ahlgren and Associates, P.C.

For over 40 years, Robert D. Ahlgren and Associates has been a pillar of the Chicago immigration law community, providing exceptional service in family-based immigration and complex waiver applications. They have a deep and nuanced understanding of the law, which they use to help families overcome significant hurdles.

The firm is particularly skilled at handling difficult cases, such as marriage petitions with fraud allegations or waivers for unlawful presence and criminal convictions (I-601A and I-601 waivers). They are known for their meticulous preparation and their compassionate approach to guiding families through these challenging processes.

Why Choose This Firm?

If your family’s case has complications or requires a difficult waiver, this firm’s decades of specialized experience are invaluable. They have a long and proven track record of successfully reuniting families.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Family Immigration and Complex Waivers (I-601/I-601A).
• Ideal For: Families with complex cases or those needing waivers of inadmissibility.
• Google Rating:8 Stars (150+ reviews)

6. Tapia-Ruano & Gunn P.C.

Tapia-Ruano & Gunn is a dynamic Chicago firm that has quickly earned a reputation for its zealous advocacy in removal defense and cases at the intersection of criminal and immigration law (“crimmigration”). They are dedicated to defending the rights of immigrants both in and out of the courtroom.

The firm’s attorneys are known for their aggressive defense strategies and their deep understanding of how criminal convictions impact immigration status. They work tirelessly to find solutions for their clients, whether through post-conviction relief in criminal court or by arguing for relief in immigration court. Their client reviews frequently praise their dedication and fighting spirit.

Why Choose This Firm?

For non-citizens facing criminal charges or dealing with the immigration consequences of a past conviction, this firm’s specialized “crimmigration” expertise is essential. They provide the integrated defense needed to protect your future.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Removal Defense and “Crimmigration” Law.
• Ideal For: Immigrants facing criminal charges or consequences from a prior conviction.
• Google Rating:9 Stars (150+ reviews)

7. Godoy Law Office
   
   
   

Godoy Law Office is a prominent firm in the Chicago area, distinguished by its team of former prosecutors and its deep commitment to the Hispanic community. This unique background gives them a powerful advantage in the complex field of “crimmigration,” where criminal defense and immigration law intersect. They provide aggressive and knowledgeable defense for immigrants facing criminal charges.

Beyond their crimmigration expertise, the firm is a full-service practice dedicated to deportation defense, family petitions, and visas. Their bilingual attorneys and staff are passionate advocates who understand the cultural nuances and specific challenges their clients face. They have built a formidable reputation for taking on tough cases and fighting tirelessly for their clients’ futures.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are a non-citizen facing criminal charges, the integrated defense from a team of former prosecutors is a critical advantage. For the Hispanic community, Godoy Law Office is a trusted, culturally competent, and powerful legal ally.

At a Glance:

• Location: Oak Brook & Chicago, IL
• Specialty: “Crimmigration” Law and Deportation Defense.
• Ideal For: Immigrants facing criminal charges and members of the Hispanic community.
• Google Rating:9 Stars (400+ reviews)

8. Zneimer & Zneimer, P.C.

For over two decades, Zneimer & Zneimer has been a cornerstone of the legal community for Chicago’s large Polish and Eastern European population. The firm was founded by immigrants and provides comprehensive, multilingual services with a deep understanding of the culture and challenges of the communities they serve.

They handle the full spectrum of immigration law, from family-based green cards and citizenship to business visas and deportation defense. The firm is known for its accessibility, providing direct and honest counsel to clients navigating the often-confusing U.S. immigration system. Their long-standing presence is a testament to the trust they have built.

Why Choose This Firm?

For Polish-speaking clients or those from Eastern Europe, this firm offers an invaluable combination of legal expertise and cultural fluency. They provide a comfortable and effective environment where clients are truly understood.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Full-Service Immigration for the Polish & Eastern European Community.
• Ideal For: Polish-speaking clients and those from Eastern European countries.
• Google Rating: 4.7 Stars (100+ reviews)

9. D’Andrea Law Corporation

While a national firm, D’Andrea Law Corporation’s Chicago office provides sophisticated counsel for businesses and investors, particularly those in the entertainment and creative industries. They have carved out a niche in handling visas for artists, athletes, and entertainers.

The firm is highly skilled at preparing petitions for O-1 visas (for individuals with extraordinary ability) and P-1 visas (for athletes and entertainers), as well as E-2 and EB-5 investment visas. Their experience with these specialized categories makes them a key resource for talent and entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the U.S.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are an artist, athlete, entertainer, or an investor with a complex business plan, this firm’s specialized niche expertise can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL (and nationwide)
• Specialty: Visas for Artists & Athletes (O-1, P-1), Investment Visas.
• Ideal For: Entertainers, athletes, artists, and foreign investors.
• Google Rating:0 Stars (40+ reviews)

10. Milla & Associates, LLC

Milla & Associates is a modern, Chicago-based boutique firm that has carved out a niche in startup and business immigration law. They are a go-to resource for entrepreneurs, tech companies, and innovators seeking to navigate the complex visa options available to them.

The firm excels at developing creative strategies for O-1 visas (extraordinary ability), L-1 visas (intracompany transfers), E-2 investor visas, and H-1B visas for startups. They understand the fast-paced nature of the business world and provide responsive, business-savvy legal counsel to help companies attract and retain top global talent. Their perfect 5-star rating reflects their success and client satisfaction.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are an entrepreneur, a startup, or a growing business in the tech or creative sectors, this firm speaks your language. They provide the specialized, agile, and strategic immigration support that innovative companies need.

At a Glance:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Specialty: Startup, Entrepreneur, and Business Immigration (O-1, L-1, E-2).
• Ideal For: Tech startups, entrepreneurs, and companies hiring specialized talent.
• Google Rating: 5.0 Stars (90+ reviews)
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FAQs

How do I choose the right immigration lawyer in Illinois?

Focus on firms whose primary specialty matches your case type (e.g., removal defense, corporate). Unlike some states, Illinois does not have a state-level board certification for immigration law, so look for other credentials like leadership roles in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), peer reviews (Super Lawyers), and strong, consistent client testimonials.

What documents do I need for a consultation?

Bring your passport, visa, I-94, and any official notices you have received from USCIS, an embassy, or the Immigration Court. It is also very helpful to prepare a brief timeline of your immigration history and a list of your most important questions.

How much does an immigration lawyer typically cost in Illinois?

In the Chicago area, attorney fees for a marriage-based green card can range from $3,000-$7,000. An H-1B visa might cost $2,500-$6,000. Deportation defense is significantly more expensive and usually requires an initial retainer of $6,000-$15,000+.

Can I switch lawyers during my immigration case?

Yes, you have the right to change your attorney at any time for any reason. Your new lawyer will file a Form G-28 with the appropriate government agencies to take over your case. Always ask for a complete copy of your file from your former attorney.

Conclusion

• For Businesses & Litigation: Scott D. Pollock & Associates and Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan offer top-tier expertise.
• For Deportation Defense: Kriezelman Burton & Associates and Tapia-Ruano & Gunn are dedicated courtroom fighters.
• For Families: Robert D. Ahlgren and Associates (for complex waivers) and Vicario Law Group (for personalized service) are outstanding choices.
• For Humanitarian Cases: Kempster, Corcoran, Quiceno & Lenz-Calvo provides compassionate and expert advocacy.
• For Niche Visas (Artists/Athletes): D’Andrea Law Corporation has the specialized knowledge you need.

Finding the right legal partner in Illinois is crucial. Use this guide to select a firm with the experience, reputation, and focus that best matches your unique immigration needs.