Immigration Legal Services (BIA Accredited Reps)

About This Program

Immigration legal services at nonprofit organizations fill a critical gap in access to justice for immigrants. Immigration law is complex, stakes are high (incorrect applications or missed deadlines can result in deportation or permanent bars to status), and private immigration attorneys can cost thousands of dollars — far beyond the reach of most low-income immigrants. BIA-accredited representatives at nonprofits provide the same legal assistance at reduced or no cost. Services commonly include help with asylum applications, DACA renewals and initial filings, green card petitions (family-based, employment-based, and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status), naturalization applications, removal defense (representation before an immigration judge), U and T visa applications for crime and trafficking victims, and VAWA self-petitions for survivors of domestic violence. Not all nonprofit immigration legal service providers handle all case types. Some specialize in asylum; others focus on affirmative applications; others take removal defense cases. Ask specifically about the case type you need when contacting a provider. Many organizations also provide legal consultations to help immigrants understand their situation and options before committing to representation. To find accredited immigration legal service providers near you, use the Immigration Advocates Network directory at immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory. Many providers have waitlists — contacting multiple organizations simultaneously is advisable. For emergency removal cases, some providers have expedited intake processes.

Eligibility Requirements

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