The AILA APAC 2025 Conference in Seoul: Legal Insights, Global Connections, and a Few Personal Surprises

HBM Law Offices, LLC was proud to be part of the 13th Annual Asia Pacific Chapter Conference hosted by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), held in Seoul, Korea from April 15–17, 2025. Our Principal Attorney, Himani Bhardwaj, had the honor of speaking on a panel that addressed one of the most nuanced areas of family-based immigration law.

A Powerful Panel on I-751 Waivers

I-751 Waiver of Conditional Residence and Other Waiver Grounds

During this impactful session, Attorney Bhardwaj joined a panel of leading immigration practitioners to discuss the legal and human dimensions of the I-751 waiver process. The conversation centered around key waiver options available to individuals who cannot jointly file to remove the conditions on their Green Card – including those based on divorce, extreme hardship, and good faith marriage exceptions.

Himani shared practical strategies and case insights drawn from her extensive experience working with immigrant families facing complex waiver challenges. Her focus on compassionate advocacy and clear legal guidance resonated with many attendees, especially in cases involving fraud allegations, abuse, and other sensitive issues that affect immigrant spouses. The conference brought together over 120 immigration attorneys from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, creating a dynamic space for legal updates, policy discussions, and professional networking. It was an inspiring reminder of the global nature of immigration law – and the critical role that dedicated legal counsel plays in supporting families through life-changing transitions all under one roof.

Attorney Bhardwaj was honored to speak on a panel alongside esteemed colleagues Ginny Hsiao and Shobhana K., where they delved into the evolving challenges and legal intricacies surrounding I-751 waiver cases. Together, they unpacked key issues impacting clients today, including:

• The risks and strategies around traveling while an I-751 waiver is pending
• Understanding Notices to Appear (NTAs) and how to navigate potential removal proceedings after waiver denials
• The critical role of mock interviews in preparing clients for USCIS scrutiny
• Why building a robust evidentiary record is more essential than ever
• And how immigration attorneys must adapt to emerging trends and heightened USCIS scrutiny

The session underscored the importance of meticulous case preparation and proactive advocacy – both cornerstones of the approach that HBM Law takes with every client.

Service Behind the Scenes

In addition to speaking on the panel, Himani Bhardwaj also served as Conference Treasurer for this year’s event. The experience offered a deeper look behind the scenes of organizing such a large-scale, content-rich program. She expressed deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of Laura Mazel, Heidi Son, and the entire Conference Committee, who ensured the event was both educational and energizing.

More Than a Conference –  a Global Community 

Beyond the CLEs and professional panels, the APAC Conference was a meaningful reminder of the power of community. For Himani, connecting with fellow immigration practitioners – sharing strategies, stories, and solidarity – was not only uplifting, but essential to serving clients well in a time of increasingly complex immigration challenges.

A Reunion 25 Years in the Making

Adding a personal touch to the trip, Himani was thrilled to reconnect with In Young R. Cho, a friend from International School Bangkok, whom she had not seen in over 25 years. The two spent hours catching up, reminiscing about middle school days, and swapping stories and photos of their families. It was a beautiful reminder of the enduring power of friendships that span time and continents.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 AILA APAC Chapter Conference was a rich and rewarding experience – from the professional knowledge gained and shared to the personal memories made. 

The 2025 APAC Founders Award For Outstanding Contributions: Honoring Vision, Leadership, and Impact

Marking a professional milestone, our Principal Attorney was awarded the “2025 Founders Award” from AILA.

I am deeply honored to have received the Founders Award from the APAC Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association for Outstanding Contributions. Since joining the chapter in 2018, I have had the privilege of working alongside an inspiring group of immigration attorneys. This is a volunteer role, and it is truly been a team effort — coming together year after year to create opportunities for knowledge-sharing, mutual learning, and building a community that genuinely supports one another.

 

If there was one message that echoed throughout this year’s conference, it was the power of that community, especially now. Coming together reminded me how vital it is, not just for our professional growth, but for our motivation, mental well-being, and emotional resilience. Because lawyers need that support too (even if we don’t always show it). Thank you to the APAC leadership and the entire APAC Chapter.

Moving Forward with Confidence 

At HBM Law Offices, we are deeply committed to staying at the forefront of immigration law so we can better serve our clients. Participating in forums like AILA’s Asia Pacific Chapter Conference helps us refine our approach, expand our perspectives, and bring the most up-to-date legal strategies back to the individuals and families we serve every day. We look forward to continued collaboration and to advancing immigrant rights together. Need help navigating the I-751 waiver process? Contact HBM Law Offices for a compassionate and thorough case review.