Immigration
The United States is truly a land of opportunity but those without full legal status struggle severely and unnecessarily for a long time. This is often due to a lack of information and the support systems needed to navigate the US immigration system. Our legal team provides advice, application and representation support on a variety of immigration issues, including:
Naturalization – applying to become a US citizen.
Asylum – applying for the right to stay for persons facing persecution in their home country
Adjustment – applying for Lawful Permanent Resident status (otherwise known as a “green card”)
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – filing for a work permit for those with a temporary lawful status or pending application for permanent status.
Family Petitions – applications for Lawful Permanent Resident status for certain close family members of US Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents
Work Petitions – applications for Lawful Permanent Resident through US-based employer or business.
Advance Parole – requesting permission to travel temporarily outside of the U.S. for people with certain types of temporary status or pending applications
We are currently leading a TPS for Nigeria campaign aimed at helping undocumented Nigerians living in the United States. You can learn more about this campaign by clicking this link HERE
Walk-in Immigration Clinic
Our immigration clinic is now open for free walk-in services at the Nigerian Center, Marion Barry Avenue, SE Washington DC 20020. The clinic services are held every Thursday from 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm. You can also call (202) 330-0352 to schedule an appointment or make an inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions - Immigration Clinic
Are the immigration clinic services only for Nigerians?
No. While we are called the Nigerian Center our services are not limited to Nigerians. The immigration clinic is open to anyone in need of immigration services.
Are the immigration clinic services open to DC residents only?
No. The immigration clinic services are open to US residents nationwide however DC residents may be given priority in terms of legal representation. Non-DC residents are able to schedule virtual appointments to speak to an attorney.
If I can’t come in person on Thursdays can I still meet with immigration attorneys?
Yes. Clients who are not able to attend the walk-in service are able to schedule a virtual appointment to speak with an attorney. Please note, there is a fee of $85 for this service.
I am undocumented should I be concerned about my immigration status being revealed?
No. All client information is completely CONFIDENTIAL. Client information will not be shared with law enforcement or immigration-related agencies.
What are the fees associated with services?
Walk-in service is a FREE service, there are no application fees to participate in this program in some cases clients may get partial or full legal representation.
Can the immigration clinic help to obtain a visa to Nigeria?
No. Immigration clinic services are for clients in search of options for becoming permanent residents and naturalized citizens in the United States. If you are interested in obtaining a visa to Nigeria please consult with the Nigerian Embassy.
Am I meeting with an immigration lawyer or paralegal when I come to the clinic?
You are meeting with a licensed immigration attorney at the clinic and a paralegal/client advocate.
Are services only open to green card applicants?
No. The immigration clinic covers a wide range of immigration services, that includes naturalization, asylum, adjustment, employment authorization documents (EAD), family petitions, work petitions, advance parole, and more.
Can the services give me access to work authorization, medical insurance, or driver's license?
Yes. At the immigration clinic, should you be eligible, you can work with a licensed immigration lawyer and paralegal/client advocate to assist you in obtaining work authorization, medical insurance, a driver’s license, and related immigration documents for enrolling in a school.
Should I come with any documents to the clinic?
Yes. Please bring all documents relevant to your particular situation such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, divorce decrees, and award certificates when you come to the immigration clinic. Also, bring all receipt numbers and notices received from USCIS.
Am I required to work with a Nigerian Center attorney?
No, you are not. We can provide referrals if needed, but you are free to work with any private attorney of your choice. We encourage you to visit us first for an independent evaluation of your options from an attorney focused on providing an unbiased review of your case, rather than solely selling a service.