

Chris Johnston serves as the Principal at our firm, bringing a wealth of expertise in corporate law. With over 15 years in the legal domain, Chris has previously held the role of corporate counsel for several Fortune 500 companies. He is a graduate of Harvard Law School, holding a J.D., and is an active member of the Bar Association. Renowned for his strategic handling of complex legal matters, Chris has successfully negotiated numerous high-stakes contracts on behalf of clients. In addition to his corporate law experience, Chris is deeply involved in the migration sector. He is the State President of the Migration Institute of Australia's South Australian Chapter, where he provides leadership to the Branch Committee, oversees the development of annual plans, and engages with stakeholders to enhance the profession. As the founder and Principal Solicitor at Work Visa Lawyers, Chris manages a team focused on achieving excellent outcomes in immigration law, from global talent visas and business innovation to family migration and judicial reviews. Chris also co-manages the Australia Study Team, helping international students with educational enrolments and visa services. This role further extends his influence and expertise in stakeholder engagement within the educational sector. His previous positions include serving as a solicitor and migration agent at McDonald Steed McGrath Lawyers and offering migration assistance at Migration Solutions. Notably, Chris was part of the legal team involved in the precedent-setting Supreme Court case Trevorrow v State of South Australia. His extensive background is complemented by his academic achievements including an LLB with Honours from the University of New England and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Adelaide.

State President of MIA SA Chapter
Migration Institute of Australia
Dec 2025 - Present • 11 months
Managing Director
Australia Study Team
Nov 2021 - Present • 5 years

National Board Director and South Australian State President
Migration Institute of Australia
Nov 2017 - Oct 2019 • 1 year 11 months

Founder and Principal Solicitor - Immigration Lawyer
Work Visa Lawyers
Jul 2011 - Present • 15 years 4 months

Solicitor and Migration Agent
McDonald Steed McGrath Lawyers
Apr 2008 - Jun 2011 • 3 years 2 months
Migration Agent
Migration Solutions
Jan 2006 - Jan 2008 • 2 years
Legal Officer
Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement
Jan 2005 - Jan 2006 • 1 year
Band Manager
Jan 1998 - Jan 2003 • 5 years

Blackfriars Priory School

Law
University of New England (AU)

Bachelor of Laws - LLB (Hons)
University of New England (AU)
2003 - 2005

Bachelor of Arts, Politics, History, Psychology
University of Adelaide
1992 - 1999
Last checked: 19 Aug 2026 • Checked with Law Society of South Australia