Q: How can I get information in my language?
A: Mayor Bloomberg introduced New York City's 311 multilingual service line as a way to access information about City services. Operators are able to respond to questions in 170 languages. By calling 311 and requesting assistance in a language of preference, you can get the information you need.
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Q: How can I find out about English as a Second Language (ESL) programs?
A: New York City funds ESL programs through agencies like the Department of Youth and Community Development. Please visit the DYCD Web site or call 311 and request information about current programs.
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Q: I think an immigration consultant overcharged me. What can I do?
A: Local Law 31 outlines requirements for immigration service providers. To file a complaint or to request copies of the Immigrant Service Provider Law Guide, which is available in 11 languages, call 311 or visit the Department of Consumer Affairs Web site. Complaints can be filed anonymously, and in the language of the caller.
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Q: How do I become a permanent resident of the United States?
A: In the United States, the federal government, through the U.S. Department of State and its consulates abroad, manages immigration law and procedures. Mayoral and City agencies have no jurisdiction over the review, acceptance, denial, or issuance of work visas or immigrant visas.
You can get more information at the Web sites of the Department of State and the bureau of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS). The U.S. CIS also offers information about the annual Diversity Visa Lottery.
To speak to a lawyer about questions you might have, you can call the New York Immigration Hotline at 800-566-7636 or contact any of the community organizations listed under BIA (Board of Immigration Appeals) Accredited Organizations.
Download the list (in PDF)
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Q: I lost my citizenship papers. What can I do?
A: To replace your papers, you need to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Its Web site has information on which forms to file and where to file them. If you were naturalized before 1991, and had a court ceremony, the National Archives and Research Administration (NARA) office in the area in which you naturalized can provide you with proof of U.S. citizenship. For more information, please consult the NARA Web site.
If your U.S. passport was issued with the past five years, the Department of State should be able to replace it. You can get more information by visiting the department's Web site.
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Q: I applied for a green card three years ago and have yet to hear back. Can you help me?
A: In some cases, MOIA may be able to make an inquiry about a backlogged application. Please provide detailed information about your application by emailing our office or calling 311.
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Q: How can I bring my family member from my homeland?
A: In the United States, the federal government, through the U.S. Department of State and its consulates abroad, manages immigration law and procedures. Mayoral and City agencies have no jurisdiction over the review, acceptance, denial, or issuance of work visas or immigrant visas.
You can get more information at the Web sites of the Department of State and the bureau of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS). The U.S. CIS also offers information about the annual Diversity Visa Lottery.
To speak to a lawyer about questions you might have, you can call the New York Immigration Hotline at 800-566-7636 or contact any of the community organizations listed under BIA (Board of Immigration Appeals) Accredited Organizations.
Download the list (in PDF)
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Q: I am a student writing a research paper about immigrants. What information is available about immigrants in NYC?
A: Aside from the MOIA Web site, a helpful source of information is the Department of City Planning's Newest New Yorkers Report. Read a summary of this report.
Another helpful source is the Web site for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Its statistical yearbook, which is online, contains information about immigrants by country.
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