About Leon
Leon Versfeld is the managing partner of Versfeld & Hugo LLC, a prominent Kansas City-based law firm that specializes in U.S. immigration law. With over two decades of experience, he focuses on business immigration, compliance, and complex immigration matters. His clients includes Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and individual clients. Leon’s practice covers many immigration issues—advising human resource departments on hiring foreign national workers, executives, and specialized professionals is a key component of his work. Before co-founding Versfeld & Hugo LLC, Leon practiced law in South Africa — He was admitted as an advocate of the High Court of South Africa in 1999. This experience laid the foundation for his transition to U.S.
immigration law. In 2003, he was admitted to the Missouri State Bar, starting his legal career in the United States. His qualifications extend to being admitted to the U.S. District Courts for the Western District of Missouri and the District of Kansas, as well as the 1st, 8th, and 10th Circuit Courts of Appeals. Leon’s expertise is not limited to individual cases; he also provides strategic counsel on labor certifications and the immigration implications of mergers and acquisitions. His role often involves navigating complex regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
This depth of knowledge is crucial for businesses looking to expand their workforce with international talent. His proactive approach helps clients mitigate risks associated with immigration compliance. In addition to his legal practice, Leon is actively involved in the Kansas City legal community. He serves as the chair of the International Law Committee of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association (KCMBA). In this role, he promotes interest in private international law and provides a forum for discussions on public international law issues. Leon has also testified before the Missouri Legislature regarding proposed immigration legislation, demonstrating his commitment to influencing immigration policy in a meaningful way. Recognized for his contributions to the field, Leon holds an AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
He has been listed in Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers and named among the "Best of the Bar" by the Kansas City Business Journal. AVVO awarded him a Superb Rating, Client’s Choice in 2015, and Top Contributor in 2013. Additionally, Missouri Lawyers Weekly recognized him as an "Up and Coming Lawyer" in 2008. Fluent in both English and Afrikaans, Leon is dedicated to assisting clients in handling the requirements of U.S. immigration law, making him a trusted advisor in the field.