Attending the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) APAC Conference in New Delhi in February 2026 was both professionally enriching and personally unforgettable.
The gathering brought together immigration practitioners and thought leaders working across the Asia-Pacific region, offering a valuable forum to exchange insights on the evolving landscape of global mobility and U.S. immigration law.
E2 Visa Panel Speaker
I had the privilege of speaking on a panel focused on the E-2 investor visa, where we discussed practical strategies for advising international entrepreneurs and navigating common challenges in E-2 adjudications.
The discussion highlighted the growing interest among investors in establishing and expanding businesses in the United States, and it was particularly rewarding to engage with colleagues who work closely with clients across diverse markets throughout the region.
In addition to participating in the conference program, I also had the pleasure of leading a morning yoga class on the first day of the conference. It was a wonderful way to start the event—bringing together colleagues for an energizing poolside session before the day began and sharing my love of yoga in the birthplace of yoga.
Beyond the Conference: Law and Culture in India
Beyond the conference sessions, the trip offered a unique opportunity to experience some of India’s most significant legal and cultural institutions. One highlight was a guided tour of the Supreme Court of India, where we learned about the court’s history, its constitutional role, and the structure of India’s legal system. For those of us who practice law, seeing another country’s highest court up close was especially meaningful and a reminder of the shared principles that underpin judicial systems around the world.
No visit to northern India would be complete without seeing the Taj Mahal, and the experience lived up to its reputation. Standing before the monument—an enduring symbol of architectural mastery and history—was a memorable moment during the trip.
Following the conference, I extended my travels with a personal visit to Rajasthan, where I explored grand palaces, historic temples and even embarked on a leopard safari. The region’s remarkable architecture, vibrant culture, and natural beauty made for an extraordinary experience.
Overall, the conference and surrounding experiences reinforced the importance of international collaboration in immigration practice. Connecting with colleagues from across the region, sharing perspectives on cross-border challenges, and experiencing India’s rich legal and cultural heritage made the visit both professionally valuable and personally rewarding.
