The Best Immigration Attorneys in Kosrae, FM
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Kosrae, FM. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
James E. Gounley
Law Offices of James E. Gounley
James Gounley is a highly respected immigration attorney with over 25 years of experience serving the Micronesia region, including Kosrae. He specializes in Compact of Free Association (COFA) immigration matters and has extensive experience with family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense. His firm maintains one of the highest success rates for immigration cases in the Pacific region, with particular expertise in navigating the unique immigration relationships between the FSM and United States. He is licensed in Guam and has represented numerous clients from Kosrae in complex immigration proceedings.
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Mark L. S. Pangelinan
Pacific Law Group LLP
Mark Pangelinan leads a premier immigration practice that extensively serves clients throughout Micronesia, including Kosrae. With over two decades of immigration law experience, he has developed particular expertise in business immigration, investor visas, and family sponsorship cases affecting FSM citizens. His firm is known for its strong track record in employment-based petitions and has successfully handled numerous complex immigration matters for Kosrae residents. The practice is highly regarded for its understanding of the unique legal landscape affecting FSM nationals seeking immigration benefits.
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Robert A. Kapp
Law Office of Robert A. Kapp
Robert Kapp has built a strong immigration practice focused on serving the broader Micronesia region, with significant experience representing clients from Kosrae. His practice emphasizes family-based immigration, naturalization applications, and deportation defense cases. He has particular expertise in handling immigration matters under the Compact of Free Association and has successfully represented numerous FSM nationals in various immigration proceedings. Known for his personalized approach and high client satisfaction ratings, he maintains a strong success rate in complex immigration cases affecting Kosrae residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Kosrae, FM
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Kosrae, FM typically handle?
Immigration attorneys in Kosrae primarily assist with family-based petitions, FSM Compact-related status issues, and applications for U.S. visas and citizenship. Given Kosrae's unique political relationship with the United States through the Compact of Free Association, lawyers frequently help clients navigate entry requirements to the U.S., maintain legal status, and handle matters related to work authorization under the Compact.
How can I find a reliable immigration lawyer in Kosrae?
You can start by contacting the Kosrae State Court or the FSM National Government offices for referrals to licensed attorneys practicing immigration law. Additionally, local community organizations often maintain lists of trusted legal professionals. It's important to verify that any attorney you consider is properly licensed to practice in the Federated States of Micronesia and has specific experience with immigration matters, particularly those affecting Kosrae residents.
What should I bring to my first consultation with a Kosrae immigration attorney?
For your initial meeting, bring all relevant documents including your passport, FSM national or state ID, any U.S. immigration paperwork, birth certificates, marriage certificates if applicable, and records of previous immigration applications. If you have specific concerns about Compact of Free Association status issues, bring any correspondence from U.S. immigration authorities. Having these documents organized will help the attorney assess your situation accurately during your consultation in Kosrae.
Are there free or low-cost immigration legal services available in Kosrae?
While specialized immigration legal aid is limited in Kosrae, you may inquire with the Kosrae State Government's Department of Health and Social Services or local non-profit organizations about available legal assistance programs. Some attorneys may offer sliding scale fees based on income, and the FSM Public Defender's office might provide referrals for basic immigration guidance, though comprehensive representation often requires private legal counsel.
How long does the immigration process typically take when working with an attorney in Kosrae?
Processing times vary significantly depending on the type of application and the involved government agencies. For Compact-related cases or U.S. visa applications handled from Kosrae, expect several months to over a year due to document transit times between islands and processing at U.S. embassies or consulates. Your Kosrae-based attorney can provide more specific timelines based on your particular circumstances and current processing trends at relevant immigration offices.
About Kosrae, FM
Kosrae residents and their families deserve experienced, knowledgeable legal representation when navigating immigration law. Our featured attorneys specialize in immigration law, visa applications, and citizenship services with personalized legal strategies in FM.
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Attorneys familiar with Kosrae community and local immigration law needs.
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Licensed and experienced attorneys with proven success records in Kosrae.
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