Equestrian-Related Immigration

“We Speak Horse”

Partner Susan E. Hill competed among national and FEI-level riders in hunters, equitation and showjumping for most of her life.  Unlike some attorneys without horse experience, she understands and distinguishes among all disciplines in the horse industry: racing, showing, polo, western and more.  Many times an equestrian case comes down to nuances in the art of horsemanship.  Not only can she can explain your case in a way that immigration officials apprehend, her expertise can help you develop a strong case where other attorneys failed to recognize your achievements or your potential.  Whether it’s a job involving competition, breeding, sales or ranch care, her insight makes a difference.

You Must Obtain Either a Temporary Visa or a Green Card, and Have a Clean Immigration Record

Read our FAQ article about types of work documents and how to qualify.  While there can be some exceptions, most people must obtain either a visa or a green card, and they cannot have unlawful presence in the U.S. Every case varies, and you can discuss your particular concerns/immigration history with us.

Charts for Quick Guidance by your Occupation: Rider, Groom, Trainer and Others

Your qualification for a visa or green card depends on the type of job involved.  Some cases require a U.S. employer, but others allow for self-employment through an agent as long as you prove that someone wants to hire you when you arrive. See the links below for information on temporary visas or green cards for each type of occupation: rider, groom, trainer and others.

Click here for a chart on temporary visas 

Click here for a chart on green cards 

How Do I Find an Agent for Self-Employment in the U.S. Equestrian Field?

Hill & Piibe can refer you to an agent to represent you.  Due to potential ethical issues, we do not file petitions as both agent and attorney, since an agent is responsible for your employment.

Free Screening

Fill out our screening questionnaire (English only) and contact Hill & Piibe through our Appointment Inquiry form on this page.  When we respond, you can send us your questionnaire, and we will review it for free and let you know if we might be able to assist.  We offer this free screening so you won't pay a consultation fee just to learn that we can't help.  If it looks like a possible case, you can schedule a Legal Advice Consultation with Partner Susan E. Hill to discuss all of your options and answer your questions.  These cases require careful development and the consultation will go through your details and let you know the strength of your case, how long it may take and what kind of evidence you will need.

Based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California, our immigration attorneys serve clients of all nationalities.