Best Immigration Lawyers in Ohio
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List of the best lawyers in Ohio, United States
United States Immigration Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 4 legal questions about Immigration in United States and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- Changing my temporary residency card in Portugal to permanent!
- Good day! I have been living in Portugal for 4 years and next year I need to change my temporary residency to permanent one. My questions: What documents do I need? How long does it take! When is the starting of 5 years? How much does it cost? I am... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello and greetings!Thank you for reaching out. Regarding your permanent residency application in Portugal, here are some important points: You will generally need your valid passport, proof of address in Portugal, your current residency permit, a clean criminal record (from...
Read full answer - Changing my temporary residency card in Portugal to permanent!
- Good day! I have been living in Portugal for 4 years and next year I need to change my temporary residency to permanent one. My questions: What documents do I need? How long does it take! When is the staring of 5 years? How much does it cost? I am... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello and greetings!Thank you for reaching out. Regarding your permanent residency application in Portugal, here are some important points: You will generally need your valid passport, proof of address in Portugal, your current residency permit, a clean criminal record (from...
Read full answer - How do I get certificate or acceptance?
- US is asking for certificate of acceptance for my son born in Ulsan 13years ago for the purpose of our immigrant visa. He was not registered at the local district office at the time as we were told as non nationals, it was not mandatory. I don’t know how to... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello, good morningTo obtain a Certificate of Acceptance for your son born in Ulsan, you will need to report the birth to the local government office (Si, Gu, Eup, or Myeon) corresponding to the place of birth. Even though the...
Read full answer
United States Immigration Legal Articles
Browse our 2 legal articles about Immigration in United States written by expert lawyers.
- H-1B Visa Outlook 2026 US: Wage Based Selection & Fees
- The US immigration system is statute-driven (mainly the Immigration and Nationality Act) and administered by USCIS, the Department of State, CBP, and the Department of Labor, each controlling different stages of the process. For March 2026 H-1B cap filings, the government is openly considering shifting from a random lottery to... Read more →
- Golden Visas: Residency by Investment in the United States
- Key Takeaways The United States immigration system is governed primarily by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and administered by USCIS, DOS, CBP, ICE, DOL, and EOIR. Most immigrants enter through family, employment, humanitarian protection, or investment routes, each with its own forms, fees, timelines, and eligibility rules. For investors,... Read more →
About Immigration Law in Ohio, United States
Immigration law in Ohio is primarily governed by federal law, but the effects of immigration policies and enforcement can be distinctly felt across the state. Ohio is home to diverse immigrant communities and has several cities known for their multicultural populations, like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Immigration legal matters in Ohio include family-based immigration, employment-based visas, asylum, deportation defense, naturalization, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and humanitarian protections. While Ohio’s state government does not control immigration policy, state agencies and local law enforcement may play roles in supporting or enforcing federal immigration laws.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
People may require the assistance of a lawyer for immigration matters in Ohio for a variety of reasons. Navigating the United States immigration system can be complex and confusing, with numerous forms, deadlines, and legal requirements. Below are some common situations where having an immigration lawyer can be vital:
- Applying for a visa or green card for yourself or a family member
- Dealing with removal or deportation proceedings
- Facing inadmissibility or exclusion due to criminal history or past immigration violations
- Seeking asylum or humanitarian protection
- Filing for DACA or renewal of deferred action status
- Naturalization and citizenship applications
- Employment-based immigration issues, including work visas and labor certifications
- Addressing issues with undocumented status
- Responding to requests for evidence or notices to appear from federal authorities
- Appealing a denied immigration application or contesting government decisions
An experienced immigration attorney can help avoid costly mistakes, protect your rights, and provide strategic advice tailored to your situation.
Local Laws Overview
While federal law regulates immigration, Ohio has its own set of laws and policies that can impact immigrants. Local law enforcement in Ohio may or may not cooperate with federal agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) depending on the city or county. For instance, some Ohio cities have enacted policies limiting cooperation with ICE, while others comply with federal detainer requests. Ohio also requires proof of legal residency for certain state benefits and professional licenses. It's important to understand that each county or municipality may have additional rules and resources for immigrants, especially regarding law enforcement and access to social services. Additionally, Ohio courts have specific procedures for matters such as Special Immigrant Juvenile Status and may host immigration-related legal clinics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for applying for a green card in Ohio?
The green card application process is the same throughout the United States and involves filing the appropriate forms with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Some steps, like the biometrics appointment or interview, may take place in local Ohio USCIS offices.
Can I get legal help if I cannot afford a lawyer in Ohio?
Yes, there are legal aid organizations and nonprofit agencies in Ohio that provide free or low-cost immigration legal services to qualifying individuals.
Does Ohio have any sanctuary cities?
Some Ohio cities, such as Columbus and Oberlin, have adopted policies to limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. However, Ohio state law does not formally recognize sanctuary cities.
How do I find out if I qualify for asylum in Ohio?
Eligibility for asylum is determined by federal law, not Ohio law. If you fear persecution in your home country, an immigration attorney can help assess your eligibility and guide you through the asylum process in Ohio.
What do I do if I receive a Notice to Appear in immigration court in Ohio?
If you receive a Notice to Appear, you should consult an immigration lawyer immediately. This means removal proceedings have been initiated against you, and you must attend a hearing in immigration court, which is located in Cleveland or other regional offices.
Can undocumented immigrants apply for a driver’s license in Ohio?
Currently, Ohio does not allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a state-issued driver’s license. You must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States to qualify.
Are there immigration courts in Ohio?
Yes, the main immigration court in Ohio is located in Cleveland, and it serves immigrants undergoing removal proceedings or other immigration hearings in the region.
How long do immigration cases take in Ohio?
Processing times can vary significantly depending on the type of case, the backlog at local offices or courts, and current federal policies. Family petitions or naturalization may take several months, while removal defense cases may take longer.
Can immigrants in Ohio qualify for in-state tuition at public universities?
Some Ohio residents with certain immigration statuses, such as DACA recipients, may qualify for in-state tuition. Policies can vary by university, so it is important to check with the specific institution.
What should I do if ICE visits my home or workplace in Ohio?
If ICE comes to your residence or job, you have rights. Do not open the door unless shown a warrant signed by a judge. You do not have to answer questions without an attorney and can exercise your right to remain silent.
Additional Resources
Below are some helpful resources and organizations for immigration concerns in Ohio:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Field Offices in Ohio (Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus)
- Cleveland Immigration Court
- Ohio Legal Aid Societies (for free or low-cost legal help)
- Ohio Hispanic Coalition
- Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS) in Columbus
- Asian Services In Action (ASIA Inc.)
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Ohio Chapter
- Ohio Immigrant Alliance
- Local bar associations with immigration lawyer referral services
- City and county offices offering immigrant support programs
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance with an immigration issue in Ohio, start by gathering all relevant documents, such as passports, visas, notices from immigration authorities, and any correspondence. Then research local immigration attorneys or legal aid organizations with experience in the area relevant to your needs. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and possible strategies. If money is a concern, inquire about free or sliding-scale services. Respond to all notices or court dates promptly and keep records of communication and filings. The right legal help can make a significant difference in the outcome of your immigration matter.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Ohio through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Immigration, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
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