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 22 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. Domestically, our 22 offices across the U.S. ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency. 

SCOPE OF WORK: The Immigration Intern will work with Legal Representatives to help refugees, asylees and other local immigrant communities apply for permanent residence, citizenship and other immigration benefits.   

COMMITMENT: Interns are required to commit to working at least 10-15 hours per week for a minimum of 3-5 months. This is an unpaid internship.  

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Immigration Intern Responsibilities include: 

  • Assisting Immigration Legal Representatives to complete immigration applications for Green Cards, Citizenship, and other applications as needed 
  • Organize, copy and assemble petitions and supporting evidence. 
  • Write clear, accurate case notes and keep client files up to date.  
  • Call clients to follow up on missing documents, appointments and case updates.  
  • Flag unclear information or possible issues to your assigned Legal Representative.  

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

How the U.S. immigration process works in practice, especially for refugees and asylees, and how a legal services program manages cases from intake through a USCIS decision 

REQUIREMENTS:  

  • Current undergraduate, graduate student, or less than one year out of school 
  • Fluency in one of the following languages strongly preferred: Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, and Spanish 
  • Familiar with the mission of IRC and willing to represent it appropriately. 
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work respectfully with clients from diverse backgrounds and experiences.  
  • Ability to maintain strict client confidentiality.  
  • Ability to work well with a culturally diverse staff. 
  • Prior experience in immigration is a plus. 
  • In-office attendance on Wednesdays and Thursdays 

This position reports to the Sr. Legal Representative

To apply please submit an application here. When completing your application, please be sure to indicate which internship position you are applying for.