Steven H. Garfinkel

Steven H. Garfinkel is the Founding Partner Emeritus of Garfinkel Immigration Law Firm and a nationally recognized leader in business immigration law. Since 1984, he has represented corporations and professionals in employment-based immigration matters, providing strategic guidance on complex visa, compliance, and global mobility issues. With decades of experience, Steven has built a reputation for excellence and leadership, helping organizations recruit and retain top international talent across industries throughout the United States and abroad.

Steven earned his J.D. from Wake Forest University School of Law and his Bachelor’s degree, cum laude, from Wake Forest University. Before founding his firm in 1997, he served as a partner leading the immigration and visa practice at one of North Carolina’s largest law firms. His background in both private and corporate immigration settings has made him one of the most trusted voices in immigration law, known for combining practical business insight with deep legal expertise.

Throughout his distinguished career, Steven has received numerous honors, including listings in The Best Lawyers in America®, Chambers USA, Business North Carolina Legal Elite, and Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized in Who’s Who Legal among the world’s leading corporate immigration lawyers. His peers have awarded him the AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rating, reflecting the highest level of professional excellence. In 2017, he received the James E. Cross Jr. Leadership Award from the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization.

In addition to his legal work, Steven H. Garfinkel has authored multiple publications on immigration policy and business visa strategies. He is an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers, and several international chambers of commerce. Through decades of advocacy, scholarship, and mentorship, Steven has advanced the practice of immigration law nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Garfinkel Immigration Law Firm
• Member, Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers
• Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association
• Member, North Carolina Bar Association
• Member, North Carolina State Bar
• Member, The Employers Association

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• Wake Forest University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Wake Forest University
  BA in Political Science & Economics

Awards & Badges