What was your experience with the EB1 petition process? Did you ever consider giving up? What was your motivation to keep pressing on?

I don’t think giving up was an option. I was very thankful to have Chris and his team guide me through the legalese, and I was happy to slightly fulfill one of my childhood dreams of being a lawyer by crafting some of the arguments myself.

At times I was definitely frustrated with the time frame of putting the case together – but that’s just impatient youth talking, and looking back, considering what was achieved, it couldn’t have gone any quicker or smoother. (Thank you!)

What kind of relationship did/do you have Chris (and his team)?

A very positive relationship! I was always able to send through extra thoughts and queries to Chris and his team without doubt. All dealings I had with the team were very thoughtful, polite and prompt – thank you.

What were you doing when you found out you were approved? What was your immediate reaction? How did you celebrate?

Because of the time difference between New Zealand and the States, I was sleeping when Leslee, Lindsey, Kosta and Chris called through with the news – but it was a fantastic phone-call to groggily wake up to. (And definitely a dream come true, in more ways than one!)

Obviously, the reaction was a big “YAY!” – and I celebrated by booking my flight back.

What are you looking forward to most about moving to the US?

New adventures and new opportunities! I feel it’s definitely going to benefit my career – and I’m looking forward to not having a restricted Netflix selection, too.

What will you miss the most about living in New Zealand?

Kiwi ingenuity and hospitality – many times a stranger has given me a lift home from the bus stop when it’s been raining. I’m not saying that won’t happen in the US, but, I’ll probably need to be a little more wary of events and motives. Kiwis are absolutely lovely people – and I know I’ll always be welcome back.

What advice would you give to any immigrant considering an EB1 or who is already in the process?

Keep on keeping on! I know, tautologies like that are always terribly frustrating – but if you’re in the EB1 process, that’s really all you can do. Don’t underestimate yourself and your case – with a bit of thought, and with Chris and his team’s help on the case, you too can go on an adventure.

Update:
“VERY EXCITING NEWS – I have my Green Card in my hands!! The FedEx parcel arrived safe and sound this morning.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work on my case – I really, really appreciate it! 

I’m so exciting to be (legally) pursuing this new life!

Again – a huge THANK YOU from the very bottom of my heart.

American best,
Jen”