Best Immigration Lawyers in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in New York, New York?

  Dial 311 to reach the local police station in New York for non-emergency concerns.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in New York, New York?

  If you require a copy of your police report, you can apply for a verification report by completing a Verification of Crime/Lost Property Report form. The verification report application is accessible at any New York police precinct, housing service area, or transit district. Additionally, you can request a copy of your record online at https://a836-citypay.nyc.gov/citypay/NYPD_VCLP.

• How do immigrants become eligible to work in New York City?

  Immigrants must meet the federal employment eligibility verification criteria on Form I-9 to work in New York City. They must confirm their employment authorization by providing suitable documentation as proof of employment and identity authorization. The employer must then check these documents to see if they are legitimate and pertains to the employee and record the findings on the employee's Form I-9.

• What are the driver's license requirements for immigrants in New York City?

  To be issued a driver's license in New York City, non-residents, and immigrants are required to produce a valid Social Security card and physical proof of their birth date, name, and identification, like a military ID or a U.S. passport. Foreign passports with USCIS documentation or formal immigration documents, such as a Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization, Arrival/Departure Record, or Notice of Action, are also accepted.

• What public benefits are available for illegal immigrants in New York City?

  Under federal regulations, illegal immigrants residing or working in New York City are denied public benefits. However, there are no explicit restrictions in New York regarding immigration and education checks, as well as housing ordinances and voter identification. There is an exception if an illegal immigrant requires emergency services to save a person's life or safety.

• Which federal agency administer immigration benefits and enforcement in New York City?

  The Department of Homeland Security administers immigration benefits and enforcement at every point in the United States, including New York City. It is made up of three agencies: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It succeeded the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service in 2003.

• Is there a law protecting new Americans in New York City?

  Chapter 748 of the Laws of 2022 was signed into law that same year by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. It means adding immigration status and citizenship to the covered protected classes. It further attests that an individual’s immigration or citizenship status cannot be the basis for unlawful discrimination in the areas of jurisdiction covered under the Human Rights Law, including New York City.