Can I hire Brazilian lawyers to represent me before USCIS?

For formal representation before USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), generally no. That role requires a professional licensed under U.S. law.

In practice, only lawyers licensed to practice law in the United States or accredited representatives recognized for that purpose can normally represent you in immigration proceedings. A Brazilian lawyer may consult with you and provide initial guidance, but cannot assume official representation before the agency.

For cases such as those involving EB-5, the ideal approach is to work with a professional legally authorized in the United States and, preferably, with demonstrated experience in immigration matters, ensuring that filings and documents meet the authorities’ requirements.

• Formal representation before USCIS: a U.S.-licensed attorney or accredited representative.
• Brazilian lawyer: may advise, but cannot officially represent you.
• Verify credentials and immigration experience before hiring.

Before signing on, check the professional’s credentials and, if in doubt, confirm the current representation rules directly with USCIS.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.