About Us

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is the national bar association of over 10,000 attorneys who practice immigration law. AILA Member attorneys represent tens of thousands of U.S. families who have applied for permanent residence for their spouses, children, and other close relatives to lawfully enter and reside in the United States. AILA Members also represent thousands of U.S. businesses and industries who sponsor highly skilled foreign workers seeking to enter the United States in a temporary or--having proven the unavailability of U.S. workers--permanent basis. AILA Members also represent foreign students, entertainers, athletes, and asylum seekers, often on a pro bono basis. Founded in 1946, AILA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that provides its Members with continuing legal education, information, professional services, and expertise through its 35 chapters and over 75 national committees.

AILA is an Affiliated Organization of the American Bar Association and is represented in the ABA House of Delegates.

Our Purpose

Our purpose is to advance the science of the administration of law pertaining to Immigration and Nationality law; to promote reforms in these laws; to facilitate the administration of justice in this regard; and to elevate the standards of integrity, honor and courtesy of those appearing in a representative capacity in such matters. More specifically, we actively lobby for reforms in these laws and procedures, and maintain liaison with regional and district offices of the Immigration and Naturalization Service and Department of Labor for this purpose. We also conduct continuing legal education seminars for the benefit of those representing others in these matters and attempt to insure that such representation is limited to those who are duly authorized to perform such services.

Our members serve on committees of the National Association of the American Immigration Lawyers Association charged with similar responsibilities.