Resources for Immigrants
Resources for Immigrants
Welcome to Pennsylvania, the birthplace of America. This guide will connect you with information and resources for Pennsylvania immigrants.
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If somebody has taken drugs and becomes unresponsive, call 911 immediately. These resources are intended for preventive measures only.
Welcome to Pennsylvania
Before the founding of the United States, William Penn established Pennsylvania, a commonwealth for people in search of freedom, tolerance, and happiness.
More than 300 years later, we continue to welcome millions of people from all parts of the world who seek opportunities and a place to call home — and for many reasons.
Pennsylvania has all the essentials — the lowest cost of living in the Northeast U.S., affordable real estate, prominent world-ranked universities, fulfilling careers, and top-ranked health institutions.
As a proud commonwealth — steadfast on our founding principles — we welcome you and your family to Pennsylvania.
Affordable Housing
Pennsylvania has affordable housing options for immigrants. Available services may depend on your immigration status. Pennsylvania County Assistance Offices (COAs) can provide guidance for local housing options.
Recently Resettled Refugees
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services leads a Refugee Resettlement Program to help refugees and their families. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Refugee Resettlement Program.
Education
Starting school in a new place and learning a new language can be challenging. The Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition published a Welcoming Schools Toolkit to provide information about the student services available to schools, communities, and families.
Employment
For those with a higher education (education beyond the secondary level) degree moving to Pennsylvania, you can get a credential evaluation or other assistance in finding a job online with the World Education Services (WES) or Upwardly Global .
Health Care
There are a variety of free and/or low-cost health care resources available to people who are uninsured, underinsured, or economically disadvantaged. The federal and non-profit organizations listed below may provide or help cover a range of medical, dental, pharmacy, vision, and/or behavioral health services.
If you are a health care provider, use this guide from the National Immigration Law Center to learn more about the rights of health care providers and their patients.
Free Clinic Association of Pennsylvania
Free & Charitable Clinics are safety-net health care organizations that utilize a volunteer/staff model to provide a range of health services. Visit Free Clinic Association of Pennsylvania to find free or charitable health clinics in your area.
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Federally Qualified Health Centers are in most cities and many rural areas. These health centers provide comprehensive primary and preventive care for all ages, regardless of your ability to pay or health insurance status. Fees for services are on a sliding scale based on your income. Find a Federally Qualified Health Center near you.
Federal Health Insurance Marketplace
Pennie helps people find affordable health insurance. Depending on your immigration status, you may be eligible for coverage through Pennie. Visit Pennie’s resources for immigrants to find out what income and immigration statuses qualify for Pennie coverage.
More information for households with mixed immigration status.
Protecting Finances and Property
Use this checklist to learn about your financial rights and how to protect your financial security and property if you are concerned that you may have to leave the country quickly.
Support Organizations and Institutions
There are many organizations and institutions which provide information on immigrants’ rights, immigration legal services, employment services, resettlement services, workforce training, advocacy and new residents’ guidance and support.
Statewide Organizations
Eastern PA Organizations
Central PA Organizations
Western PA Organizations
LGBTQ Immigrants
The National Immigrant Justice Center provides legal services to LGBTQ immigrants across the country.
Consulates in Pennsylvania
Consulates promote commercial, cultural, educational, medical and governmental relationships between our state and their respective countries and serve the diplomatic needs of foreign citizens and visiting dignitaries in Pennsylvania.
Know Your Rights
All persons, including non-citizens, have rights. Learn more about your rights and what you can do to educate yourself with these resources from the Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition.
Apply for Citizenship or Immigration Services
If you are interested in applying for citizenship or other immigration services, learn more at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website and access forms you potentially may need .
Note: You can check the status of your citizen application by calling the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) hotline at 1-800-375-5283. If you have your receipt notice, you can also check your status online on the USCIS website . You can also contact your local Representative or Senator for Pennsylvania . A privacy waiver may be required in order to receive assistance.
