In this special episode of The Private Chef Podcast, I interviewed Ava Benach, immigration attorney and co-founder of Benach & Collopy. Ava shares her personal connection to immigration and the diverse communities she grew up with. She delves into the complexities of the U.S. immigration process, focusing on issues relevant to immigrants, including chefs seeking visas. Ava emphasizes the importance of legal guidance and outlines pathways for international skilled workers. She also discusses challenges such as visa applications, waivers, and green cards, the entrepreneurial spirit of immigrants, and the valuable contributions they make to the fabric of American society.

Tune in to learn more about the critical role of legal professionals in successfully navigating immigration.


Listen to this brand new episode of The Private Chef Podcast on:

Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/immigration-pathways-for-international-chefs-and/id1648363134?i=1000655773559
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/22KYX6GQsLmVJpPGGsDtSt
Youtube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgVgvQKw2DY

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For immigration assistance, connect with Atty. Ava Benach

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ava-benach-2406235/
Email [email protected]
Visit Benach Collopy website https://www.benachcollopy.com/


Time Stamps

00:01:29 - The Role of Immigrants in the U.S.
00:03:14 - New York's Culinary Melting Pot
00:05:40 - Misconceptions About U.S. Immigration
00:07:44 - Legal Implications for Employers
00:12:11 - Immigration Process Timelines
00:14:33 - Labor Market Tests for Immigration
00:19:00 - Setting Up a Restaurant and Immigration
00:27:36 - Pathways for Lesser-known Chefs
00:33:01 - Extraordinary Ability Visa Details
00:36:04 - Transitioning Careers Post-Immigration
00:39:08 - Challenges for Young, Single Immigrants
00:45:09 - Long-term Unauthorized Stay and Legal Remedies
00:49:38 - Importance of Legal Advice in Immigration

Sound Bites

"Immigrants are born entrepreneurs and have people who have self-selected to abandon everything they know and take great risks towards the unknown for the opportunity to fulfill themselves personally, professionally."

"U.S. immigration policy is driving these talented people, who can help build a future."

"We don't make it easy and ought to make it a lot easier."

"The pathway is patience. Build your career, build yourself, build up your resume."


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