The international legal market is constantly shifting, and for many lawyers, visa policy is a defining factor in career planning.
Asian Lawyers in New York: Navigating H-1B Challenges
The recent $100,000 H-1B salary threshold has left many Asian lawyers in New York questioning their next steps. We understand how daunting it can feel when visa changes create uncertainty about your future.
What hasn’t changed is the value of the experience you’ve gained. US firms in Hong Kong and Singapore continue to actively recruit lawyers with New York training — making now a natural time to consider opportunities back in Asia.
“We’re seeing consistent demand in Singapore for US-trained associates at elite firms. For lawyers feeling pressure from visa changes, this is a chance to leverage your training and return home with a strong career trajectory. The same applies in Hong Kong, where Mandarin language skills are typically required.” — Sonia Taylor, Director – Asia
Australians and Canadians: Pathways to New York
On the other side of the equation, New York remains an attractive destination for lawyers from Australia and Canada. While US-trained associates are always in highest demand, some firms actively seek out Australians and Canadians for their strong transactional training and adaptability.
Visa pathways make this possible: Australians typically via the E-3 visa, Canadians via the TN visa. At Sonder, we’ve supported many associates making this transition — and several members of our own US team are Australian and Canadian, with first-hand experience of the move.
“The path to New York isn’t always easy (it took me some planning and strategic career steps), but the rewards are significant. We regularly help Australians and Canadians make the move, and with the right timing, it remains very possible for those at top-tier firms.”
— Stefano Barbagallo, Director – New York
Australians in London: Strategy and Opportunity
For Australian lawyers, London remains one of the most accessible and attractive international markets. The city offers exposure to elite US and Magic Circle firms, working on some of the largest cross-border transactions in the world.
Visa access is also comparatively straightforward. Many Australians enter through the UK Ancestry visa (if eligible) or the Skilled Worker visa sponsored by their firm. For more junior lawyers, the Youth Mobility Scheme can also be an entry point.
“The theme in London this year has been strong demand for exceptional talent — and the bar has never been higher. UK-trained associates are generally preferred, largely due to the training contract and ease of onboarding. With this said, we’ve facilitated several Australian associates into global elite corporate and finance teams in the City. It takes strategy and the right introductions to reach the top of the UK market, but likewise to New York, the rewards are exceptional.”
— Jonathan Taylor, Director – London
How Sonder Can Help
Whether you’re navigating visa challenges in New York or considering a move into the city, you don’t need to go through it alone. Sonder Consultants has a proven track record of guiding lawyers through cross-border transitions — from market insights and interview preparation to long-term career planning.
If you’re weighing your options, let’s talk. Whether over a coffee or a video call, our team is here to help you turn uncertainty into opportunity.
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