Legal Support & Pathway To Status

The U.S. immigration process can be complicated, but you're not alone. . This section connects you to trusted legal help, community support, and step-by-step guidance to help you understand and navigate your immigration options.

Always seek help from licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives. In Chicago, many nonprofits offer free or low-cost immigration services on a sliding-scale:

Services include help with:

  • Asylum applications and credible fear interviews
  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
  • DACA renewals 
  • Work permits and travel documents 
  • Family petitions and green cards
  • U visas, T visas, and VAWA protections 
  • Removal defense (in some cases) 

Only licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives can give immigration advice. Be cautious of "notarios" or consultants without legal credentials. 

  • Immigration scams can take many forms, including false guarantees of success. If the advice you receive sounds too good to be true, it’s important to get a second opinion before submitting any immigration documents. 
  • Be cautious of social media posts and advertisements that claim they can guarantee success in your case. Never sign a blank document or anything you don't fully understand
  • Always ask for copies of every document. 
  • Beware of scammers pretending to be immigration officials. USCIS will never contact you through social media apps like Facebook or WhatsApp. Imposters may call or message you requesting payment—often by phone or gift card. Never send money this way. Always verify directly with the official agency. Payments should only be made through the official USCIS website or in person at an authorized location. Report any suspicious contact, including names and phone numbers. 

Ask:

  • Are you licensed or accredited?
  • What are all the fees and services?
  • Can I get a written agreement? 

Always verify email addresses and communication sources.  Do not engage with or send money to anyone claiming to be a legal representative without verifying their credentials. When in doubt, consult an official government website or a licensed immigration attorney. 

To contact USCIS, you can click the link(s) below: 

Contact Us | USCIS

Contáctenos | USCIS

Report fraud to the Illinois Attorney General. File a Complaint or call the number(s) below 1-800-386-5438 or 1-866-310-8398 (Spanish) 
 

Chicago hosts free legal clinics across the city:

  • Daley Center Help Desk
  • Harold Washington Library
  • Community-based legal aid days (information can be found on social media platforms, websites, and flyers in the city) 

 

Call 2-1-1 or check local calendars for upcoming clinics. Interpretation is often available. 

You may be eligible for U.S citizenship if you’ve had a green card for 3–5 years. Free help is available to:

  • Check your eligibility
  • Complete the N-400 application
  • Study for the test and interview

Visit ICIRR’s New Americans Initiative for citizenship classes and application support.

DACA is currently limited to renewals. If you’ve previously been approved, you can reapply. NIJC and TRP offer screenings and application assistance.

If you fled violence or persecution, you may qualify for asylum or humanitarian parole.

Always consult a qualified immigration attorney before submitting documents.

For urgent assistance:

  • NIJC Detention Project: 312-263-0901
  • Legal Aid Chicago: 312-341-1070

State-run immigrant support centers offer referrals for legal assistance, housing, employment, and education services.

To learn more, visit the Illinois Department of Human Services for trusted information and available programs.