UAE: VFS Global partners with Rayad Group to offer immigration advisory services in US
VFS ETM, a subsidiary of the VFS Global group, has announced a partnership with UAE-headquartered Rayad Group to provide immigration advisory services across five major US cities — Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC.
According to a press release issued by VFS Global, the collaboration aims to make immigration services more accessible to US residents through designated VFS Global locations. As part of the initiative, the two organisations will set up a Centre of Excellence focused on high-quality immigration advisory services.
The centre will leverage advancements in generative AI and draw on top-tier legal expertise to help clients navigate complex immigration procedures and stay compliant with evolving regulations.
"As global immigration frameworks become more intricate and regulatory standards rise, this partnership will provide US residents with access to a network of experienced immigration, tax, and legal professionals,' the release stated. These experts will offer customised solutions for a wide range of immigration needs.
Founded in 1994, Rayad Group has an extensive global network of associate attorneys in 45 countries and affiliations with 25 Citizenship by Investment Programmes. It also specialises in pathways to permanent residency, Golden Visas, US EB-5 visa programmes, and Green Card compliance.
Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, said the alliance comes at a time when immigration considerations for US Green Card holders are evolving. 'The recently announced 'Gold Card' initiative has generated significant interest among ultra-high-net-worth individuals,' he said. 'According to the US Department of Commerce, the programme may offer exemptions from income tax on global earnings for eligible participants, further enhancing its appeal.'
Amit Kumar Sharma, Head of Americas at VFS Global, called the partnership a natural extension of both companies' strengths. 'Our collaboration with Rayad Group reflects a shared commitment to delivering exceptional service to our customers. By combining VFS Global's extensive worldwide operations and recognised leadership in visa services with Rayad Group's deep expertise in immigration and legal consulting, we are well-positioned to provide clients with comprehensive, up-to-date guidance on migration strategies and regulatory compliance,' he said.
VFS Global, which partners with 69 client governments, operates over 3,800 application centres in 158 countries and has processed more than 461 million applications since 2001.
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