Comparison
Immigration Lawyer vs Immigration Consultant
Quick answer
An immigration lawyer is a licensed attorney who can provide full legal advice and court representation. An immigration consultant (also called a registered migration agent in some countries) is authorized to assist with document preparation and applications, but has limited legal representation rights. For complex or high-stakes cases, an attorney is almost always the safer choice.
Key differences
When to choose Immigration Lawyer
- You have a complex visa category: O-1, EB-1, investor visa, or startup visa
- You have had a prior visa denial or complication on your record
- You are facing removal proceedings or an immigration court hearing
- Your employer is sponsoring you and there is legal compliance risk
- You need full legal advice on your options, not just application assistance
When to choose Immigration Consultant
- You have a straightforward work permit, student visa, or family sponsorship
- Your eligibility is clear and the case involves standard documentation
- Cost is a primary constraint and the country has well-regulated consultant credentials
- You need help with paperwork and process, not complex legal strategy
Which Should You Choose?
For simple, straightforward applications, a regulated immigration consultant can be a cost-effective option. For anything complex — prior denials, extraordinary ability petitions, investor visas, or anything involving a hearing — always use a licensed immigration attorney. The cost difference is small compared to the risk of a preventable mistake.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an immigration lawyer and an immigration consultant?
An immigration lawyer is a licensed attorney who can give legal advice, represent you in court, and handle complex or contested cases. An immigration consultant assists with paperwork, document preparation, and process guidance, but is not a lawyer and cannot provide legal advice or court representation. The distinction matters most when a case involves any legal risk or complication.
Can an immigration consultant give legal advice?
No. Only a licensed attorney can give legal advice or represent you before immigration authorities and courts. A reputable consultant helps you complete and organize applications correctly, but if they advise on legal strategy or eligibility interpretation, they may be operating beyond their scope — which can put your case at risk.
Do I need an immigration lawyer or is a consultant enough?
For straightforward, low-risk applications with clear eligibility, a qualified consultant may be enough to help with paperwork. But if your case involves a prior denial, criminal history, deadlines, appeals, or any legal ambiguity, an immigration lawyer is strongly advised — the cost of a mistake or missed issue usually far exceeds the difference in fees.
Typical cost
Visa issued abroad (사증)
US$40–US$90
Single-entry visa: US$40 for a stay of up to 90 days, US$60 for 91 days or more. Multiple-entry visa: US$70 for up to two entries, US$90 for unlimited entries. Charged by the Korean embassy or consulate in the equivalent amount.
Extension of stay (체류기간 연장허가)
₩60,000
₩30,000 for marriage immigrants (F-6).
Grant or change of status
₩80,000–₩200,000
₩80,000 to be granted a status (₩40,000 for F-6) and ₩100,000 to change status, for example from student to work. A change to permanent residence (F-5) costs ₩200,000.
Alien registration card and re-entry permit
₩30,000–₩50,000
₩35,000 to issue or reissue the alien registration card (외국인등록증). A single re-entry permit costs ₩30,000 and a multiple re-entry permit ₩50,000.