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James D. Prappas

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Both words in the term "human capital" aptly encapsulate how James Prappas has approached his employment-based immigration practice for over 30 years. Exceptionally well-versed in the ever-shifting legal and practical complexities of immigration, James never loses sight of the hopes and dreams of those who seek opportunities in the U.S. and recognizes the equally consequential stakes for the businesses he represents.

Board-certified in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, James works with employers and individuals alike to connect the world's top talent with companies that can leverage that talent to fuel their sustained success. His counsel - informative, clarifying, and perceptive - is informed by the perspectives gained from years of working and living abroad and the insights that can only come from decades of experience.

Fortune 500, middle-market, and emerging companies across a wide range of industries rely on James for guidance and assistance with all of their U.S. immigration needs. His clients include employers from the energy/renewables, technology, manufacturing, and service sectors, as well as high-net-worth individuals. James works closely with each client, learning their stories and goals and ensuring they fully understand the process, challenges, and variables inherent in employment-based immigration, strategic immigration planning, family-based immigration, and naturalization matters.

James has extensive experience in nonimmigrant visas, including B, E-1, E-2, H-1B, H1B1, L1 blankets, O, P, and TN. He advises clients on the international transfer of key personnel, employment and family-based immigration, worksite enforcement and I-9 matters, naturalization, and derivative citizenship. Fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, James can provide counsel that loses nothing in translation.

Frequently recognized for his professional excellence, including a ranking in Chambers USA every year since 2015, James is a prolific writer and sought-after speaker and presenter on immigration matters, sharing his expansive knowledge and insights with colleagues, clients, and others.

“From the experiences of my immigrant grandparents, I gained a deep appreciation for how a successful journey can change the trajectory of lives and, conversely, how roadblocks or setbacks can cause trepidation, anxiety, and dashed hopes. That is why I am so determined to achieve the former and avoid the latter for my clients.”
    • University of Houston Law Center, J.D.
    • Davidson College, A.B., with honors

  • Bar Admissions

    • Texas

    • Board Certified, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Immigration and Nationality Law, 1993-Present

    • Ranked in Chambers USA for Immigration – Texas, 2015-2024

    • Recognized in Best Lawyers in America for Immigration Law, 2011-2024

    • Named one of Houstonia Magazine's “Top Lawyers,” 2019

    • U.S. Mexico Bar Association, U.S. Chair, January 2024-Present

    • U.S. Department of Commerce Houston District Export Council, Member

    • British-American Business Council Houston, Board Member

    • Japan America Society of Houston, Board Member

    • Netherlands America Chamber of Commerce – Texas Chapter, Board Member, 2011-2018

    • GlobalScot, Member

    • The Parish School - Board Member, 2009- 2017; Vice President, 2013-2017

    • Consulate General of Mexico in Houston, Honorary Legal Counsel

    • Board Certified, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Immigration and Nationality Law

    • Greek
    • Spanish

Contact

Houston713-904-6962

Areas of client focus

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