Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) – Columbus, OH

Empowering New Americans in Central Ohio

Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) is a vital non-profit organization located in Columbus, Ohio, dedicated to helping refugees and immigrants achieve safety and self-sufficiency. For over 30 years, CRIS has been a beacon of hope for individuals fleeing persecution and conflict. While it is a comprehensive resettlement agency, it also hosts a robust Legal Services department that operates much like a public interest law firm. This team of dedicated attorneys and Department of Justice accredited representatives provides high-quality, low-cost legal representation to immigrants navigating the complex U.S. immigration system.

Immigration Legal Services

The CRIS Legal Services team offers expert counsel on a wide array of immigration matters, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to justice. Their services include:

• Naturalization and Citizenship: Guiding permanent residents through the process of becoming U.S. citizens.
• Green Card Adjustment: Assisting refugees and asylees in applying for Lawful Permanent Resident status.
• Family Reunification: Filing petitions to help families reunite in the United States, including I-130 petitions.
• Asylum: Representing individuals seeking protection from persecution in their home countries.
• Employment Authorization: Helping clients secure the legal right to work in the U.S.

A Holistic Approach

What sets CRIS apart is its ability to connect legal clients with broader social services. A client seeking to find a lawyer for a green card application can also access employment services, English classes, and wellness support under the same roof. The organization is a member of the National Immigration Legal Services Directory and operates with a mission to welcome and support the ‘stranger’ with dignity and respect.

Northwest Columbus Location

CRIS is headquartered on Executive Drive in the designated refugee resettlement area of Northwest Columbus. This location is easily accessible for many of the communities they serve. The office provides a safe and multicultural environment where clients from Ukraine, Haiti, Somalia, and across the globe can find support. If you need to order a lawyer for immigration paperwork but cannot afford private firm rates, CRIS is an invaluable resource.

Schedule a Consultation

CRIS operates primarily by appointment. They host specific intake clinics for certain nationalities and general consultations for others. Contact them to determine your eligibility and schedule a meeting with their legal team.