Christopher Richardson

Christopher Richardson is a prominent figure in the field of immigration law and policy, currently serving as the President and General Counsel at BDV Solutions, a Greenville-based consulting company specializing in legal immigration solutions.12 Here's an overview of his background and career:

Professional Experience

Richardson has a diverse professional background that includes:

• BDV Solutions: He joined the company in February 2019 as General Counsel and COO, and recently assumed the role of President and General Counsel in April 2024.35

• Argo Visa: Co-founder of this remote video immigration consulting technology company featuring former consular officers.34

• U.S. Department of State: Served as a Foreign Service Officer from 2011 to 2018, with postings in Spain, Pakistan, Nicaragua, and Nigeria.3

• Private Law Practice: Worked as an attorney at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, Alston & Bird LLP, and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP.3

Diplomatic Career

As a U.S. diplomat, Richardson held various roles including:

• American Citizen Services Chief
• Immigrant Visa Chief
• Acting Nonimmigrant Visa Chief
• Deputy Nonimmigrant Visa Chief2

He received several awards for his service, including Superior and Meritorious Honor Awards.13

Education and Expertise

• Education: Graduated summa cum laude from Emory University (2003) and earned his law degree from Duke University School of Law.13

• Expertise: Recognized as a leading expert on immigration policy, with experience in consular affairs, foreign affairs, and public diplomacy.46

Notable Contributions

• Resigned from the State Department in 2018 and drafted an affidavit against the Muslim Ban, which was cited by Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer in Trump v. Hawaii.4

• Has advised both Democratic and Republican members of Congress on immigration, diversity, and foreign policy issues.4

• Served as Chair of Pete Buttigieg's immigration policy committee and worked on the Biden 2020 campaign immigration policy committee.4

• Co-authored the "Historical Dictionary of the Civil Rights Movement" (2014).14

Christopher Richardson's extensive experience in immigration law, diplomacy, and policy-making has established him as a respected voice in the field of immigration and international relations.