Help for Individuals
HIAS Telephone Assistance
Through our national immigration information hotline (1-800-HIAS-714), callers from across the country can receive general information about eligibility for the U.S. refugee program, immigration options for their relatives, procedures for applying for permanent residence and citizenship, and other important issues. HIAS staff will advise callers if their questions are too complicated to be addressed over the phone and, in some cases, may provide a referral to another non-profit organization. Callers also can order over the phone HIAS Citizenship Preparation Materials and a Preliminary Questionnaire for the Refugee Program from the Former Soviet Union.
Legal Representation for Asylum Seekers
The Refugee and Immigrant Services department provides legal representation for a limited number of qualified individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Asylum representation may be provided in the New York area or, through a growing network of pro bono legal practitioners, elsewhere in the United States. Scientists, artists, scholars, and other professionals may be eligible for assistance through the Vivian S. Prins Program.
Anti-Semitism
HIAS also will evaluate and consider for representation any asylum application by victims of anti-Semitism.
Legal Assistance for Survivors of Torture
HIAS represents detained survivors of torture who seek asylum in the United States and currently are incarcerated in the Elizabeth, New Jersey Detention Center; local county correctional facilities; or elsewhere in the New York metropolitan area. This service is funded by the Lutheran Immigrant & Refugee Service (LIRS).
Legal Service Referrals
HIAS can help individuals across the United States find legal assistance with immigration matters in their area through our network of partner organizations and through referral to the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the American Bar Association.
