and Immigration at White & Case LLP

Mara Brasil Giacobbe

Mara Brasil Giacobbeis is the strategic corporate partner specializing in HR services and operational risk with a solid foundation in law and international legal standards. She currently serves as the Associate Director, HR Compliance, Mobility, and Immigration at White & Case LLP.

Please tell our readers about the journey you have had in the industry and some key roles and responsibilities.

Over the past two decades, I've witnessed remarkable transformations in legislation and a surge in immigration applications. My primary responsibility revolves around overseeing corporate immigration procedures to ensure compliance and facilitate seamless applications. Guiding employees through the intricate immigration process demands strategic planning and effective communication to address uncertainties. Keeping abreast of ever-changing legislation, I facilitate global mobility while upholding quality performance standards, blending legal expertise with a global outlook to foster client success.

What are some recent trends and challenges impacting the industry?

Recent trends highlight prolonged processing periods due to escalating application volumes and complex regulations, compounded by disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This leads to slowdowns in consular processing and naturalization. While efforts to enhance processes are underway, challenges persist, impacting the labor market, employers, and employees alike. Government initiatives, such as visa renewal pilot programs, aim to mitigate these challenges, yet substantial performance improvements remain imperative. Inter-agency cooperation is pivotal in addressing systemic issues, underscoring the multidimensional nature of talent mobility across borders.

How do you envision the future of the immigration field?

I anticipate gradual yet steady improvements in the immigration system, evidenced by initiatives like visa renewal pilot programs and the expansion of online USCIS services. Despite persisting challenges like inconsistent processing times, collaborative efforts between government agencies and industry experts offer promising prospects. The post-COVID era may witness a shift towards remote and electronic processes, fostering efficiency and adaptability. Strategic planning and cooperation are integral to shaping an agile, user-centric immigration system responsive to evolving global dynamics and security imperatives.

“Government initiatives, such as visa renewal pilot programs, aim to mitigate these challenges, yet substantial performance improvements remain imperative. Inter-agency cooperation is pivotal in addressing systemic issues, underscoring the multidimensional nature of talent mobility across borders”

What are some project initiatives that you are part of?

I'm actively engaged in projects focused on enhancing visa renewal processes and optimizing USCIS portals for electronic submissions. These initiatives aim to address industry challenges, streamline processing times, and promote digital transformation. Collaborating with government agencies, I advocate for progressive immigration processes, proactively addressing future challenges to foster industry growth.

What advice would you give to your peers?

My advice to fellow immigration professionals is to prioritize talent and compliance while adopting a personalized approach. Recognize the human impact of each case and uphold meticulous attention to detail, adhering to timelines and organizational rigor. Embrace continuous improvement, leveraging technology for efficiency and engaging policymakers to address systemic challenges. Embracing adaptability and innovation is essential for navigating the evolving immigration landscape effectively.