Mark Lanning

Mark is an Immigration Director with 19 years’ experience in immigration and cross-border investment. Mark assists clients with US immigration, and residency and citizenship-by-investment programs in Europe and the Caribbean.

Mark was previously a Director of Immigration for nine years at another international private client law firm with offices in Asia. Prior to that, he served as a US diplomat and consular officer with tours in Guangzhou, London, Taipei, and Hong Kong. As a non-lawyer, Mark does not provide legal advice to clients but works alongside attorneys at the firm who advise on immigration law and tax.

Mark has been frequently quoted in the media in relation to immigration-related issues. He is a member of the Hong Kong Select USA Committee and the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.

Mark is proficient in English, Mandarin, and Russian.

Key Experience

• Assisted numerous CEOs and entrepreneurs to overcome refused US visa applications
• Guided many high-net-worth families through multi-jurisdiction economic immigration programs in order to obtain better opportunities, mobility and security
• Helped tech companies to establish operations in the US and sponsor key staff

Career History

Immigration Director, Mishcon de Reya LLP
Immigration Director, Withers LLP
Foreign Service Officer, US Department of State
Princeton University, Master of Public Administration, International Relations
Whitman College, Bachelor of Arts (Hons), History

Articles and Publications

• 5 May 2023: AmChamHK online: “The EB-5 Program: New and Improved”
• 3 June 2020: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Immigration Planning During the COVID-19 Outbreak” 
• 3 August 2019: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Immigration Investment – US Green Card Application Threshold to Increase” 
• 29 September 2019: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Enquiries on Immigration Up 30%. Best to Understand Your Own Needs First” 
• 20-Sept-2019: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Do Not Follow Trends; Make Four Main Preparations”. 
• 23 August 2019: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Investment minimum of applying for U.S. green card to increase” 
• 29 June 2018: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Alternatives to US Investment Visa” 
• 26 April 2017: South China Morning Post: “America 's Immigrant Visas: What Future Holds for Chinese Investors”
• 20 July 2016: Hong Kong Economic Journal: “Understanding Optimal Options Before Making a Decision on Investment Immigration” 
• June 2015: Biz.hk – AmCham Hong Kong Magazine: “A New Pathway for Chinese Entrepreneurs”