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Procedures

Free immigration legal help in New York — organizations and directories

List of nonprofit organizations offering FREE or low-cost immigration legal help in New York: AILA pro bono, CLINIC, state-specific organizations, university resources.

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These nonprofit organizations in New York offer FREE or low-cost immigration legal help. If you need help with DACA, asylum, citizenship, deportation, or any immigration case, contact these options BEFORE paying private fees.

Organizations in New York

  • Make the Road NY
  • New York Legal Assistance Group
  • Catholic Charities NY
  • African Services Committee
  • Sanctuary for Families

National resources (available to New York residents)

Directories and hotlines

Specific-case hotlines

  • Asylum: RAICES (1-866-RAICES-4), CLINIC asylum line
  • Detention: NIPNLG (1-800-867-2924)
  • VAWA / domestic violence: 1-800-799-SAFE (national line)
  • Human trafficking victims: National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888

⚠️ Important: Avoid fraudulent “notarios”

AVOID PEOPLE CALLING THEMSELVES “NOTARIO PÚBLICO” FOR IMMIGRATION if not attorneys or BIA-accredited reps. US notary publics are NOT attorneys (unlike Latin America). People without legal credentials practicing immigration are violating federal law.

Verify credentials:

How to prepare for consultation

  1. Bring ALL documents: passport, green card if any, USCIS letters, criminal records, tax returns, evidence of family relationship, immigration status history
  2. Be HONEST: even about criminal records or past issues. Attorney needs FULL truth to defend you well.
  3. Ask about timelines and possible outcomes
  4. Confirm cost (if applicable) in writing before committing
  5. Bring translator if your English is limited

Last verified: 2026-05-25.

General procedural information for educational purposes. Not legal, tax, or immigration advice. Laws and fees change — verify with the issuing agency before taking action. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney or other appropriate professional.

Legal-aid programs in New York

8 locations/organizations on record in New York. Always verify directly before visiting.

Frequently asked questions

Do immigration legal aid organizations in New York verify my immigration status before helping?
NO. Immigration-focused nonprofits help PEOPLE regardless of immigration status. They do NOT share information with ICE or immigration authorities. Their mission is serving immigrant communities.
How much do consultations cost?
Most nonprofits listed offer FREE initial consultation. Some charge reduced fees for long cases. Privates may charge $50-$300 initial consultation.
Do they accept walk-ins or do I need appointment?
Depends on organization. Most prefer appointments (capacity limited). Call first. In emergencies (recent detention, soon court date), they may see walk-ins.

Major federal procedures

Detention and constitutional rights

Finances for immigrants

General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.