James G. Aldrich

Member


Jim Aldrich helps companies compete by bringing qualified people from other countries to work in the United States. As head of Dykema’s immigration team, he understands employers’ frustration over processing requirements, changes in domestic policy, investment constraints, and health-related travel restrictions. When clients need skilled foreign nationals, often accompanied by their families, to make their businesses better, they turn to Jim to make it happen.

Drawing from his extensive knowledge of visa petitions and employment options, Jim devises creative solutions to complicated immigration, citizenship, and naturalization challenges in an array of industries, including automotive, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, tech, construction, financial services, agriculture, academia, entertainment, hospitality, and food services. He works with companies of all sizes to place foreign workers in U.S.-based executive, scientific, technical, and other specialized jobs.

Clients value Jim’s command of the business and family-based framework regulations and his ability to deliver clear and actionable answers to complex rules involving admissibility, consular processing, worksite enforcement and employer sanctions, immigration audits and investigations, security checks, and waivers. He is sensitive to the expense, utilizing paralegals to provide cost-effective representation when feasible.

Besides preparing urgently needed petitions and supporting documentation, Jim counsels clients on long-term immigration strategies associated with investment opportunities and corporate formation, aligning business goals with available immigration benefits. He has advocated for various reforms to the U.S. immigration system, such as improving border security and procedures, consular processing, and admission procedures for foreign nationals. Jim also volunteers his time and knowledge to pro bono immigration matters.

It’s rewarding to work with clients who value their employees’ gifts and talents. I help businesses bring those skills here, which can create life-changing opportunities for foreign nationals and their families.
    • University of Detroit, J.D.
    • Michigan State University, B.A.
  • Bar Admissions

    • Michigan
    • Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Immigration Law, 2021-Present. Copyright 2015 by Woodward/White, Inc., Aiken, SC

    • Recognized by The Legal 500 United States for Labor and Employment – Immigration (2017-2019)
    • State Bar of Michigan, Member
    • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member
    • Recognized for over 10 years of service on Bloomfield Township Zoning Board of Appeals

Latest News and Insights

Podcasts10.15.24

Is hiring a foreign national a risky move for cannabis employers?

Cannabis legalization may continue to spread state-by-state, but Uncle Sam still sees it as a…

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Press Releases8.15.24

216 Dykema Lawyers Listed in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 and Best Lawyers “Ones to Watch”

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that 216 of its attorneys, in multiple practice…

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Press Mentions6.1.24

"'Mission Critical:' Foreign Workers provide huge boost to local employers"

Jim Aldrich was quoted in the Traverse City Business News article, "'Mission Critical:' Foreign…

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