When celebrities need counsel on U.S. immigration policies, New York lawyer Michael J. Wildes often lands the work.

He has scored O-1 visas—reserved for “individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement”—for the Brazilian soccer star Pele and the British singer-songwriter Boy George. He helped the famous French chef Jean-Georges obtain U.S. citizenship. He’s represented at least five past Miss Universe pageant winners. His father, Leon Wildes, represented John Lennon in his U.S. immigration battle.