As a global leader in the automotive industry and home to world-class research universities, Michigan is a vital destination for international talent, businesses, and families. Navigating the immigration process in the Great Lakes State requires legal counsel with specialized knowledge and unwavering dedication. We’ve identified the 10 best immigration law firms in Michigan, selected for their outstanding reputations, expertise, and commitment to their clients.

1. Ellis Porter PLC

Ellis Porter is a nationally recognized firm that has carved out a powerful niche in serving universities, research institutions, and highly skilled professionals. With a strong presence in the Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit areas, they are experts at handling complex cases for professors, researchers, and physicians, as well as providing comprehensive services to corporate clients.

The firm is a leader in securing visas for top-tier talent, including O-1 visas for extraordinary ability, EB-1 petitions for outstanding researchers, and National Interest Waivers (NIW). They also pioneered a unique “DIY” service model for certain case types, demonstrating their innovative and client-focused approach. Their attorneys are known for their deep expertise and for making complex processes understandable.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are a researcher, academic, or a university, Ellis Porter’s specialized expertise is a perfect match. They understand the unique landscape of academic and research-based immigration better than anyone and are a top choice for highly skilled individuals.

At a Glance:

• Location: Troy & Ann Arbor, MI
• Specialty: Universities, Researchers, Physicians, and Extraordinary Ability cases.
• Ideal For: Academics, research institutions, and high-tech professionals.
• Google Rating:9 Stars (250+ reviews)

2. Fakhoury Global Immigration

As one of the largest and most technologically advanced corporate immigration firms in the country, Fakhoury Global Immigration (FGI) is a powerhouse. Headquartered in Michigan, they serve the needs of the automotive industry and a wide range of multinational corporations, managing high-volume immigration programs with exceptional efficiency.

FGI leverages proprietary case management technology to offer clients a streamlined and transparent process for handling H-1B, L-1, and PERM cases. Their large team of attorneys and professionals provides strategic, compliance-focused advice to some of the world’s biggest companies. They are built for scale, speed, and precision.

Why Choose This Firm?

For large corporations, particularly in the automotive and tech sectors, FGI offers a robust, high-tech platform for managing a global workforce. They are the leading choice for businesses that require a sophisticated and efficient high-volume immigration partner.

At a Glance:

• Location: Troy, MI
• Specialty: High-Volume Corporate Immigration and Technology.
• Ideal For: Large corporations, especially in the automotive and engineering sectors.
• Google Rating:6 Stars (150+ reviews)

3. Butzel Long

Butzel Long is one of Michigan’s oldest and most prestigious full-service law firms, with a top-tier immigration practice group. They provide sophisticated immigration counsel to a diverse range of corporate clients, from established manufacturing giants to emerging technology companies.

The firm’s immigration attorneys work seamlessly with experts in other practice areas like corporate, labor, and tax law to provide integrated solutions. This is a significant advantage for businesses navigating complex transactions like mergers and acquisitions. They are known for providing strategic, business-savvy advice and for their deep roots in the Michigan business community.

Why Choose This Firm?

For businesses that require comprehensive legal counsel that extends beyond just immigration, Butzel Long is an ideal choice. They offer the power, prestige, and integrated services of a major corporate law firm.

At a Glance:

• Location: Detroit, Troy, Ann Arbor, MI (and more)
• Specialty: Integrated Corporate Immigration and Business Law.
• Ideal For: Large corporations and businesses needing comprehensive legal support.
• Google Rating:7 Stars (40+ reviews for Detroit)

4. The Law Offices of R. S.

The Law Offices of R. S. is a highly-rated Detroit-based firm with a strong focus on family-based immigration and removal defense. They are known for their passionate advocacy and for providing personalized, compassionate service to individuals and families.

The firm’s team is dedicated to helping clients navigate the most stressful immigration challenges, from reuniting families through marriage petitions to fighting aggressively for clients in the Detroit Immigration Court. Clients consistently praise them for their dedication, honesty, and their commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are looking for a dedicated and compassionate advocate for your family or for a removal defense case, this firm’s client-first approach and excellent reputation make them a top choice in the Detroit area.

At a Glance:

• Location: Detroit, MI
• Specialty: Removal Defense and Family-Based Immigration.
• Ideal For: Individuals in removal proceedings and families seeking a dedicated advocate.
• Google Rating:0 Stars (400+ reviews)

5. Varnum LLP 

A dominant force in Michigan’s legal landscape for over a century, Varnum LLP has a powerful business immigration practice that is a cornerstone for the West Michigan business community. From their Grand Rapids headquarters, they provide sophisticated immigration counsel to a wide array of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

As a large, full-service corporate law firm, Varnum’s immigration team provides integrated legal solutions, working alongside experts in labor, tax, and corporate law. They are highly skilled at managing corporate compliance programs, securing visas for key executives and employees, and advising on immigration strategy for mid-to-large-sized companies.

Why Choose This Firm?

For established businesses in Grand Rapids and West Michigan, Varnum is the premier local choice for comprehensive, high-level corporate immigration services. They offer the power of a large firm with deep roots and an unwavering commitment to the Michigan business community.

At a Glance:

• Location: Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Detroit, MI (and more)
• Specialty: Corporate Immigration for West Michigan Businesses.
• Ideal For: Mid-to-large-sized companies in West Michigan.
• Google Rating:6 Stars (40+ reviews for Grand Rapids)

6. Bashrawi, PLC

Located in Dearborn, Bashrawi, PLC is a cornerstone of the legal community for Michigan’s large and vibrant Arab-American population. The firm provides comprehensive, culturally fluent legal services in a fully bilingual (Arabic/English) environment.

The firm handles all aspects of immigration law, including family petitions, business visas, asylum, and complex citizenship matters. They have a deep understanding of the specific challenges and nuances that clients from the Middle East may face. Their strong community ties and excellent reputation are built on a foundation of trust and successful outcomes.

Why Choose This Firm?

For Arabic-speaking clients, this firm offers an invaluable combination of top-tier legal expertise and deep cultural understanding. They provide a welcoming and effective environment where clients are truly understood.

At a Glance:

• Location: Dearborn, MI
• Specialty: Full-Service Immigration for the Arab-American Community.
• Ideal For: Arabic-speaking clients and those from the Middle East.
• Google Rating:9 Stars (150+ reviews)

7. Coven Law Group

Coven Law Group is a boutique firm in Metro Detroit with a powerful focus on removal defense and federal immigration litigation. They are known for their creative and aggressive approach to defending clients in the most challenging situations.

The firm’s attorneys are experienced litigators who are not afraid to take on tough cases, including those involving criminal convictions or previous deportation orders. They handle bond hearings, asylum trials, and appeals, and will sue the government in federal court over unreasonable delays or denials.

Why Choose This Firm?

When you are facing deportation and need a tenacious and creative legal team to fight for you, Coven Law Group has the litigation skills and the fighting spirit you need.

At a Glance:

• Location: Royal Oak, MI
• Specialty: Removal Defense and Federal Litigation.
• Ideal For: Individuals in removal proceedings, especially those with complex cases.
• Google Rating:0 Stars (100+ reviews)

8. Dickinson Wright PLLC

Dickinson Wright is another of Michigan’s elite, large corporate law firms with a highly capable business immigration practice. They serve a diverse roster of clients, from automotive suppliers to technology companies and healthcare systems, providing strategic immigration counsel.

The firm’s Immigration Group excels at providing seamless, integrated legal services. They advise on the immigration impact of corporate transactions, ensure I-9 and E-Verify compliance, and manage the visa needs of key executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers.

Why Choose This Firm?

For established corporations that need a reliable, full-service legal partner with deep roots in Michigan’s business community, Dickinson Wright is a top-tier choice.

At a Glance:

• Location: Detroit, Troy, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, MI (and more)
• Specialty: Corporate Immigration for established businesses.
• Ideal For: Mid-to-large-sized corporations seeking a full-service business law firm.
• Google Rating:5 Stars (30+ reviews for Detroit)

9. El-Rowmeim & Associates, P.L.L.C.

Honigman is one of Michigan’s largest and most influential law firms, with a dynamic immigration practice that is particularly attuned to the needs of the tech, life sciences, and venture capital sectors. They provide strategic, forward-thinking immigration counsel to some of the most innovative companies in the state.

The firm’s immigration attorneys are part of a larger corporate ecosystem, allowing them to provide sophisticated advice on the immigration implications of financing rounds, mergers, and acquisitions. They excel at securing O-1 visas for extraordinary individuals, H-1B visas for tech talent, and strategic counsel for startups looking to build a global workforce.

Why Choose This Firm?

If you are a high-growth startup, a tech company, or a venture-backed firm, Honigman’s deep integration with the innovation economy makes them an ideal partner. They understand the speed and strategic needs of your business.

At a Glance:

• Location: Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, MI (and more)
• Specialty: Corporate Immigration for Tech & Venture Capital sectors.
• Ideal For: Startups, tech companies, and private equity-backed firms.
• Google Rating:8 Stars (40+ reviews for Detroit)

10. Path Law PLC

Path Law is an Ann Arbor-based boutique firm dedicated to helping families, students, and professionals navigate the immigration system. They are known for their clear communication, modern approach, and their commitment to providing high-quality, accessible legal services.

The firm handles a wide range of cases, from F-1 student visa issues and H-1B petitions to marriage-based green cards and naturalization. They leverage technology to create a smooth client experience and are praised for their ability to explain complex legal concepts in a simple, straightforward manner.

Why Choose This Firm?

For students, young professionals, and families in the Ann Arbor area who value a modern, communicative, and client-friendly approach, Path Law is an excellent choice.

At a Glance:

• Location: Ann Arbor, MI
• Specialty: Family, Student, and Professional Immigration.
• Ideal For: Students, young professionals, and families in the Ann Arbor area.
• Google Rating:0 Stars (50+ reviews)

FAQs

How do I choose the right immigration lawyer in Michigan?

Look for a lawyer who specializes in your specific case type (e.g., automotive corporate, university, removal defense). Check for leadership roles in the AILA Michigan Chapter, which is a good indicator of peer respect. Given the presence of the Detroit Immigration Court, if you face removal, prioritize firms with significant litigation experience.

What documents do I need for a consultation?

Bring your passport, visa, I-94, and any official notices you have received from USCIS or the Immigration Court. It’s also helpful to prepare a written timeline of your immigration history and a list of your most important questions for the attorney.

How much does an immigration lawyer typically cost in Michigan?

In the Metro Detroit area, attorney fees for a marriage-based green card can range from $3,000 to $6,000. Corporate cases like an H-1B visa might cost between $2,500 and $5,000. Deportation defense is a significant expense, often requiring an initial retainer of $5,000 to $15,000+.

Can I switch lawyers during my immigration case?

Yes, you have the absolute right to change your legal representation at any time. Your new lawyer will file a Form G-28 to take over the case. To ensure a smooth transition, always request a complete copy of your case file from your previous lawyer.

Conclusion

• For Corporate & Automotive: Fakhoury Global Immigration, Butzel Long, and Dickinson Wright are top choices.
• For Universities & Researchers: Ellis Porter is the premier specialist in this field.
• For Removal Defense: The Law Offices of R. S. and Coven Law Group are dedicated and experienced litigators.
• For the Arab-American Community: Bashrawi, PLC and El-Rowmeim & Associates offer culturally fluent, expert counsel.
• For Families: George P. Mann & Associates (for experience) and Path Law (for a modern approach) are excellent options.

Choosing the right legal partner is the most critical step in your immigration journey. Use this guide to find a trusted Michigan firm that has the specific expertise your case requires.