collaboration is crucial for maintaining compliance and minimizing disruptions.”


Shah also advises companies on immigration implications during corporate mergers and acquisitions. “Many restructurings occur without early input from immigration teams, creating challenges for foreign national employees,” he explains. “We work closely with organizations to evaluate necessary immigration actions, ensuring compliance and minimizing risks.”


For law students aspiring to enter the field, Shah emphasizes the importance of a well- rounded education. “Taking a variety of immigration courses, participating in clinics, and securing externships is key,” he advises. “Whichever path you take aſter law school, understanding different aspects of the field is valuable as they oſten overlap in practice.”


Rahul Shah ’02 (right) with his wife, Anjali Shah (leſt), at an American University “Change Can’t Wait” event.


“Rahul’s leadership at Fragomen and his dedication to pro bono service make him a stellar example of how our graduates use their legal education in meaningful and impactful ways,” said Hughes.


In today’s volatile political and economic landscape, companies face mounting immigration compliance challenges. Shah highlights three key concerns: geopolitical instability, economic pressures, and heightened enforcement risks.


“Our firm’s Worldwide Immigration Trends Report outlines key issues affecting global mobility,” he notes. “Political unrest, environmental disasters, and health


status became complicated due to minor legal issues in the 1960s. These issues led to deportation proceedings, but because he was stateless, the government was unable to deport him. As a result, Pachnowski found himself in legal limbo for over five decades. In 2019, the WCL Immigrant Justice Clinic took on Pachnowski’s case. Student attorneys conducted extensive research and investigations. Their efforts paid off when they successfully uncovered defects


crises require businesses to build resilient workforce strategies. Meanwhile, rising immigration fees, local hiring mandates, and processing delays complicate talent mobility. Additionally, as global business travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, stringent enforcement measures and AI- driven compliance monitoring add new complexities.”


To stay ahead, Shah advises businesses to take a proactive approach. “Companies should develop crisis management plans, track regional risks, and implement contingency strategies like remote work arrangements. Leveraging technology, data analytics, and cross-department


in the original proceedings and obtained a pardon for one of his convictions. Following these legal victories, the


Clinic was able to reopen Pachnowski’s immigration court case and restore his permanent residence status. After addressing a few remaining legal matters, Pachnowski applied for citizenship through naturalization in 2024. He passed his citizenship interview with flying colors and was officially s worn in as a U.S. citizen.


Looking ahead, he predicts two major shiſts in immigration law: data-driven decision-making and the increasing role of technology. “Companies are leveraging immigration data to optimize workforce planning, while governments worldwide are exploring AI-assisted processes for application reviews and compliance tracking. Understanding these trends will be essential for future practitioners.”


Shah’s career demonstrates how hands-on legal experience and mentorship can shape a successful path in immigration law. Through his work at Fragomen, he continues to help businesses and individuals navigate global mobility and complex immigration policies. His journey serves as an inspiration.


The WCL Immigrant Justice Clinic’s dedication and hard work helped to ensure that a Holocaust survivor finally received the recognition and belonging he deserved in his adoptive country. Henry’s experience also illustrates the plight of stateless persons in the United States. The organization United Stateless played an important role in drawing attention to Henry’s case and advocating on his behalf. —By Brice Helms


AMERICAN UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON COLLEGE OF LAW 33


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