On March 7, over fifty members and guests of the FACC gathered to discuss visa updates and immigration news. Given the complex questions currently surrounding immigration procedures and regulations, the panel discussion offered a valuable overview of these issues.

Serge Bellanger, President of the FACC, opened the discussion and emphasized the positive impact of exchange programs on the transatlantic economic and cultural relationship. This impact is apparent in the growing number of candidates that have come to the U.S. for training in the twenty years since the FACC International Career Development Programs were created. Exchange programs, Mr. Bellanger stated, represent a crucial element of international education for students and trainees on both sides of the Atlantic.

Providing an overview of the FACC's J-1 Visa Program, Christopher Gallagher, Deputy Managing Director, addressed operational changes and potential new regulations with regards to training categories, and explained that Washington's Office of Management and Budget has yet to issue a final rule on these regulations. Mr. Gallagher also emphasized the notable benefits that the J-1 visa option offers VIE, Young Professional, and Student trainees. There is no government quota to limit the number of trainees, the format of the traineeship is flexible, and files are processed rapidly by the FACC. Most importantly, the J-1 visa provides companies in the U.S. with top international trainees. As stated by Mr. Gallagher, "in the age of globalization, the J-1 visa is an essential tool to build mutual understanding and develop the international management talent of the future."

Julie Krasnogor, Esq., Partner with the firm Krasnogor & Krasnogor LLP, explored various work-based visa options, including the H-1B Professional Worker, the E-1/E-2 Manager or Essential Skills Worker, the L-1 Intra-Company Transfer, and NAFTA's TN status option. Ms. Krasnogor discussed the various visas and drew important distinctions between them. She also provided the latest updates with regards to H-1B visas and explained the premium processing for the I-140. Concluding with a corporate testimonial, Kimberly Dillon, of the Human Resources Department at Moët Hennessy USA, highlighted the benefits of the J-1 visa. By hosting high-caliber trainees, her company has not only gained valuable international talent but has also offered a unique opportunity to the trainees. Through their experience in the U.S., these stagières return home with new skills, a stronger resumé, and professional contacts.

Following the discussion, FACC members and guests gathered for networking. The FACC would like to extend its thanks to Urban Living, Accent International Recruiting, and Groupe Crystal for generously sponsoring this informative panel discussion.