SwagatUSA was founded by Immigration Attorney Dhenu Savla.

My Story

– Dhenu Savla

I first came to this country when I was 10 years old from India along with my family. At the time, I was far too young to know or appreciate the significance of the experience that I was facing. I knew only that I wanted to see snow.

Quickly as I moved, I realized that there were so many things that were new and different about the United States. I started asking questions about our own traditions and learning more deeply about myself and my heritage through these questions. Like many young immigrants, I was also bullied by some classmates. These experiences made an impact and made me respect and honor the journey that immigrants face when they decide to move from a place and country that is familiar to a place and country that is entirely new.

I decided to go to law school because to me, learning the law was very empowering. Through the legal system, you get the protections and the rights that are provided to each individual in the United States. However, until we learn it, it seems scary and difficult to comprehend. I wanted to understand the legal system to learn the rules of our country.

After graduating from Loyola University Chicago School of Law, I realized that I needed to help empower other immigrants who are also faced with the enormous challenge and possibilities opened by moving to a new and unfamiliar country. To this day, it is this passion that drives me each and every day. Watching my clients succeed gives me strength. To this success, I am committed. I am also committed to creating the type of law firm that supports clients in achieving their immigration goals and looks beyond just an “application” or a “case” but in context of the individuals for whom the case is handled. One that makes immigrants feel accepted, honored, and empowered. With this in mind, I decided to name my law firm, SwagatUSA. “Swagat” means “welcome” in Sanskrit.

At SwagatUSA, I hope you always feel welcome.

Memberships and Leadership Roles in the Legal community:

Executive Board Member – Chicago Bar Association

Co-Chair Immigration & Nationality Law Committee – Chicago Bar Association Young Lawyers Division

Member – American Immigration Lawyers Association

Member – Indian American Bar Association

Member – American Bar Association

Speaking Engagements:

Immigration Options for Entrepreneurs – KOJAIN Samelan Chicago (2012)

Unlawful Presence Waivers – An Overview – Chicago Bar Association Young Lawyers Division (2011)

Citizenship Application Basics – Indo-American Center (2011) (in Hindi)

204(l) – Ending the Widows Penalty – American Immigration Lawyers Association Chicago Chapter Meeting (2010)