Eligibility
Because NWIRP receives approximately 1,500 inquiries for services per week, we are unable to serve every request. Eligibility requirements can change depending on the caseload of our attorneys, demand for services, and activity in the immigration community around the country. However, our standard eligibility criteria for direct legal representation include:
- Status: NWIRP supports immigrants, asylum-seekers and refugees, regardless of immigration status.
- Income: In general, NWIRP can only assist individuals with an income of 200% or less of the Federal poverty level. Based on the poverty guidelines for 2018, this equals $24,280 per year for an individual and $50,200 for a family of four. Some of NWIRP's funding sources have higher or lower limits, so individuals should contact us to determine eligibility.
- Hardship in Home Country: NWIRP often takes cases of those who risk returning to countries where they would face significant hardships.
- Cases of Abuse: NWIRP tries to help those who lack legal status and are being physically or emotionally abused by someone in their family.
- Other Factors: Other factors, such as language barriers, age of applicant, and situation with dependents, are taken into account when deciding whether to take your case.
You can find the complete list of our eligibility requirements in English and Spanish at the following links:
Spanish Eligibility Requirements English Eligibility Requirements
If you have an immigration question and believe you meet these criteria, please contact the closest office listed below.
If the unit you are calling is not able to take your call, please leave a detailed message with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER as well as a BRIEF EXPLANATION of your immigration issue.
When you call, please explain what type of immigration issue you are calling about:
- Citizenship: ask for the Citizenship Unit
- Domestic Violence: ask for the VAWA Unit
- Asylum: ask for the Asylum Unit
- Children or Juvenile: ask for the Children and Juvenile Unit
- All other inquiries: Let the receptionist know your situation so we can best help you