Hendrik is focused on assisting individual artists, entertainment industry professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking entry into the U.S. Hendrik has worked with upper echelon musicians, dancers with the world renowned Les Ballet Trockadero de Monte Carlo, film and television editors, directors, cinematographers, television hosts, actors, athletes, and many others in related professions. Further, Hendrik has worked with many entrepreneurs from around the world who are now on valid visas in the U.S, successfully operating their start-up ventures, and enjoying life in the U.S.

Hendrik was born in South Africa, and grew up in Argentina and Mexico, having emigrated to the U.S. in 2000 where he completed his undergraduate and legal studies. Having grown up in several countries around the world, Hendrik understands the unique situation foreign born persons face when entering a new country hoping to live, work, and realize their dreams in the United States of America. Fluent in Spanish and Afrikaans, with the ability, through the staff at the Law Offices of Vaughan de Kirby, to also communicate in Mandarin and Cantonese, Hendrik is able to work with individuals on a personal level to provide caring and effective legal services.

Having himself been a drummer over several years and having been involved in the arts throughout his life, Hendrik has always had a passion for and understanding of the industries. Hendrik's sister, Marilet Pretorius, is also involved in the arts as a prolific Printmaker, having been selected as a member of the prestigous California Society of Printmakers. See some of Marilet's work at www.mariletpretorius.com.

Hendrik's background and passion for these industries, combined with his knowledge of specialized U.S. Immigration Laws and Procedures, in particular visa processing for persons in the arts and entertainment fields as well as entrepreneurs and investors, have equipped him well to assist clients navigate the complexities of immigration processing.

Hendrik is the co-author of several publications including the EB-5 Investor based guide to permanent residency which can be ordered for free on this site, and has written various articles for online media sources regarding visa processing for artists and entertainers. Various immigration guides that Hendrik has prepared can also be downloaded for free on this website.

Hendrik completed a large part of his high school education at the international British school, Greengates, in Mexico City, Mexico. Please feel free to contact Hendrik directly at hp@dekirby.net. Hendrik is also available for media requests including seminars and other engagements.

Areas of Practice:

Immigration & Naturalization Law
California Bar Number: 255074

Education:

Santa Clara University School of Law, Santa Clara, California
J.D. with Honors California
Polytechnic State University (CalPoly), San Luis Obispo, California
B.S. with Honors
Greengates High School, Mexico City, Mexico
Languages:

English
Afrikaans
Spanish