Xana Connelly

Sha-naAttorney
San Juan
About

With over 20 years of experience, Xana Connelly has represented corporate clients in a wide range of US business immigration legal services, including the preparation and submission of applications for work visas for intracompany transferees and specialty occupations, as well as treaty investor visas and North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) visas, citizenship, passport matters, and employer compliance issues.

Xana has represented Puerto Rico's principal banks, credit unions and private investors in foreclosures, evictions, debt collection, bankruptcy, title curative, residential and commercial loans, real estate, notary law and consumer affairs.

Xana counsels employers and individuals regarding immigration issues on an ongoing basis. In addition, she assists in the due diligence of immigration-related matters in business mergers and acquisitions, and stock purchases.

Areas of FocusReal EstateCorporateConsumer Goods
Bar admissionsPuerto Rico
CourtsUnited States District Court for the District of Puerto RicoUnited States Court of Appeals for the First CircuitPuerto Rico state courts and administrative agencies

EXPERIENCE

Successfully executed the most complex US visa application proceeding held in Puerto Rico, petitioning approximately 180 visas for non-immigrant workers from Spain and Mexico to work on the final phase of a major construction project of an important European hotel chain on the island.

Successfully led the integration of all Spanish personnel of the information technology (IT) division, sales department, and research and development (R&D) division for a multinational manufacturing and wholesale food industry company, during the merger and acquisition by ensuring continued authorized employment of key personnel.

Languages
  • Spanish
  • English

AWARDS

  • Recognized, San Juan Labor and Employment Law, Best Lawyers Puerto Rico, (2026)
  • Recognized, San Juan Corporate and M&A Law, Best Lawyers Puerto Rico, (2026)
Education
  • J.D., University of Puerto Rico
  • M.S., University of Puerto Rico
  • B.S., University of Puerto Rico

Publications

Prior Experience

Prior to joining DLA Piper, Xana was a partner at a boutique law firm specializing in business immigration, banking, foreclosures, title curative, real estate and notary law.

Memberships and Affiliations

  • Puerto Rico Bar Association
  • American Bar Association

My latest insights

Publication

White House proclamation introduces $100,000 H-1B visa fee: Key considerations

23 September 2025 .4 minute read

Publication

Department of Homeland Security ends temporary protected status for Venezuelan nationals

18 September 2025 .2 minute read

Publication

Puerto Rico Department of Consumer Affairs reactivates its Office Against Discrimination...

10 December 2024 .3 minute read

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Phone

+1 787 945 9146
(Work, San Juan)