Immigration Intern

Job Description

TITLE: Citizenship and Immigration Intern LOCATION:Elizabeth, NJ START DATE: Fall 2022 DURATION: 3-4 months / 15-24 hours per week - preference to candidates that can commit to a full academic year

*This is an unpaid internship position.*

BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee(IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 28U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist immigration staff in helping refugees, asylees, and other immigrants apply for adjustment of status (green cards), United States citizenship, family petitions, reunification applications, work permits, travel documents, DACA renewals and other immigration benefits Assist with accurate completion of application forms for clients Meet with clients to review their applications and documentation, take necessary information from them, follow up with them in preparing their petitions Notify clients via telephone or mailings about matters related to their applications Assist clients with additional necessary procedures, such as requests for evidence and follow-up advocacy with USCIS or local or federal political / legislative offices Help to strategize, plan and execute community outreach efforts related to immigration matters, including assistance with planning know-your-rights and citizenship workshops as well as other informational forums:Conduct outreach mailings Assist immigration team with tracking, filing, and mailing relevant documents, applications, and notices of action Maintain up-to-date client data in online immigration database Other related duties as assigned by the Immigration Program Manager or Immigration Assistant.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Student will learn about immigration law and policy Student will learn about refugee resettlement and refugee social services Student will develop research and outreach skills Student will learn how to interact with multi-cultural and limited English speaking clients

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS: JD candidate/law student preferred; will consider a college student Fluency in Spanish or Ukrainian strongly preferred Familiar with the mission of IRC and willing to represent it appropriately Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with refugees, asylees and other immigrants Ability to work well with a culturally diverse staff Prior experience in immigration a plus Part or full-time internship; more than one position available

This position reports to the Immigration Caseworker and Immigration Program Supervisor.

IRC leading the way From Harm To Home.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.