Immigration & Citizenship Counseling

Every year about one million people receive permanent residence (green cards) in the United States. Of this number, about three quarters receive their residence through an eligible family member. The International Institute assists individuals and families in this process of family reunification through immigration counseling and preparation of petitions, applications and supporting documents. In addition, the International Institute assists individuals in other areas of immigration such as student and tourist visas, fiancé petitions, waivers and conditional residence issues. Since all documents submitted to the United States government must be translated into English, the International Institute is able to translate all documents.

The International Institute also assists people preparing for citizenship through counseling and preparation of forms. In general, to qualify for citizenship, an individual must be a permanent resident for five years, be able to read, write, speak and understand English, pass a government and history test and have no criminal record. However, there are many other issues which can affect the ability to become a United States citizen and great care is taken to ensure all qualifications are met. Individuals requiring Immigration Court representation are assisted by our Bridgeport and Hartford offices.