By Richard T. Herman (Herman Legal Group)
CLEVELAND, Ohio — In a rare and unusually direct public statement this week, the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland Division of Police (CDP) attempted to calm rising fear and confusion across Greater Cleveland by making one point unmistakably clear: the Cleveland police ICE statement emphasizes that they are not agents of immigration enforcement.
Cleveland police are not ICE — and they will not behave like ICE.
The statement arrived during a tense moment nationally, following the killing of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, and amid a flood of unconfirmed reports and social media posts claiming immigration agents were seen across Cleveland neighborhoods.
This Cleveland police ICE statement reflects a commitment to community safety by assuring residents that local law enforcement will not act as ICE agents.
At a time when many immigrant families do not know who to trust — or what to do when federal agents appear — Cleveland’s message matters, not as political theater, but as a public-safety decision: when local residents are afraid to call the police, everyone becomes less safe.
You can track Cleveland’s official government services and leadership through Cleveland City Hall and the City’s main portal at City of Cleveland (clevelandohio.gov).
Below is the official statement language as published in Cleveland media reporting:
“The Cleveland Division of Police (CDP) has reviewed multiple reported ICE sightings and, to date, has found no evidence of ICE raids in Cleveland. While not federally required, we have not been notified that ICE is conducting any immigration-related operations within the city.”
“CDP officers will never ask about an individual’s immigration status.”
“CDP is tasked with protecting public safety, and while they will take action against anyone who commits violent crimes, they are not responsible for enforcing general federal immigration law.”
If you want to see the statement reported in context by Cleveland news outlets, start here:
News 5 Cleveland (Scripps): “City of Cleveland says no evidence of ICE operations within the city”
WKYC: “Immigration attorneys warn of possible ICE activity in Cleveland”
Cleveland’s message is strong — and welcome — but it needs to be understood precisely.
It signals that Cleveland officers are not going to turn everyday policing into immigration enforcement, including:
No immigration-status questioning
No routine “papers” checks
No acting as federal deportation agents
A continued focus on violent crime and public safety
This aligns with Cleveland’s broader posture on immigration enforcement that has been publicly emphasized by city leadership, including Mayor Justin Bibb’s earlier statement rejecting local participation in deportations of non-violent residents: Statement from Mayor Justin M. Bibb (City of Cleveland)
It does not guarantee that:
ICE will not operate in the region
people will not be arrested in Greater Cleveland
county jails won’t cooperate with ICE
nearby suburbs or counties won’t take a different stance
That last point is the one most people miss.
A family living in Cleveland may hear “CDP will not assist ICE crackdowns” and assume they are safe.
But in practice, regional cooperation is fragmented — and it often turns on county-level decisions, not city statements.
Cleveland is not a city on the sidelines of the immigration conversation. It is home to thousands of immigrant families, international students, refugees, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, and long-time residents who help sustain neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, and the regional economy.
That’s why the Cleveland Division of Police statement matters so much in real life: when immigrant communities fear that calling local police could lead to immigration consequences, it doesn’t just hurt immigrants — it weakens public safety for everyone.
If you want Cleveland-specific, practical guidance from my team at Herman Legal Group, start here:
And if you want directions, hours, reviews, and contact details for our Cleveland office, here is our Google listing:
If you need urgent legal help, you can also schedule directly here:
Here is the real-world breakdown, as clearly as I can put it.
Cleveland police can decline to participate in immigration enforcement actions and still comply with their obligations under criminal law.
You can find the relevant city public safety pages here:
County systems are often where ICE gets leverage, because immigration holds and transfers frequently depend on jail access, release timing, and custody logistics.
Key official reference point:
Even when a city police department does not participate in street-level activity, people can still become vulnerable if they wind up in county custody — including for low-level offenses, traffic-related arrests, or older warrants.
Cleveland is not the only jurisdiction that matters. The wider region includes many municipalities and counties that may take different approaches, stay silent publicly, or openly cooperate.
For example, Cleveland Heights has had prior federal enforcement activity, and residents often point to those experiences as the reason fear spikes quickly during national crackdowns.
You can find Cleveland Heights police resources here:
When people say “local police are cooperating with ICE,” they usually mean one or more of these:
Sharing information about arrests or jail bookings
Honoring ICE detainers (requests to hold someone longer)
Notifying ICE before release
Allowing ICE interviews inside detention facilities
Assisting with logistics (traffic control, perimeter support, etc.)
Signing a 287(g) agreement (the formal “deputization” pipeline)
The most aggressive form of formal cooperation is the 287(g) program, which allows DHS/ICE to train and delegate certain immigration enforcement functions to local agencies.
For background:
Ohio has seen continued debate and adoption of 287(g) arrangements by some sheriffs, and reporting has covered the expansion of these partnerships within the state.
Most police departments do not like to issue clear public statements about immigration enforcement because it invites political blowback from both directions:
accusations of “harboring”
accusations of “enabling raids”
threats of litigation, funding pressure, or political targeting
So Cleveland’s choice to speak plainly is significant.
It is also consistent with Cleveland’s public stance that law enforcement should focus on violent crime, not fear-based civil enforcement that drives victims and witnesses underground.
If there is one scenario driving fear in Cleveland right now, it’s this:
A knock at the door. Someone says “police” or “federal agent.” A person in the household panics. The door opens. And everything changes.
So let’s simplify the most important legal concept into something families can actually use in real life.
You do not have to open the door to ICE unless they show a valid judge-signed warrant and you verify it.
Many ICE documents are not judge-signed warrants. They may be administrative forms.
This distinction matters because an ICE “administrative warrant” is not the same thing as a judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.
Here is the script I recommend families practice out loud:
“I am not opening the door. Please slide the warrant under the door or hold it up to the window. I will review it. If it is signed by a judge, I will comply. If it is not signed by a judge, I do not consent to entry.”
That’s it.
Short. Calm. Non-confrontational. Clear.
If they show you a paper, look for:
A judge’s name and signature (not just an agency official)
A court name (not just “DHS” or “ICE”)
Your correct address
A date that appears valid and current
If you are unsure, you can say:
“I need to speak with my lawyer before I answer questions.”
Don’t run
Don’t argue
Don’t lie
Don’t sign anything you don’t understand
Don’t open the door just because someone sounds authoritative
Because even when Cleveland police say they won’t enforce immigration law, federal agents can still operate independently — and fear spreads fastest when people don’t have a plan.
If you want to learn more about the Cleveland Police posture, the City’s public safety pages are here:
When rumors of ICE activity spread through Cleveland, the biggest danger is panic. Panic leads to bad decisions — opening doors too fast, signing paperwork you don’t understand, or giving statements that later get used against you.
This checklist is designed to be copied, pasted, printed, and shared.
Do these first:
Stay calm and slow everything down.
Do not open the door just because someone knocks loudly or claims to be “police.”
Do not run outside. Sudden movement can escalate encounters.
Tell everyone in the home: “No one opens the door. No one answers questions.”
If you live in Cleveland, you can confirm the City’s public safety information here: Cleveland Division of Police
You are allowed to verify identity.
Ask: “Who are you? What agency?”
Ask: “Why are you here?”
Ask: “Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?”
Tell them: “Hold it up to the window or slide it under the door.”
Important: Many ICE documents are not judge-signed warrants.
A judge-signed warrant is different from ICE administrative paperwork.
Say this through the door:
“I am not opening the door. Please slide the warrant under the door or hold it up to the window. I will review it. If it is signed by a judge, I will comply. If it is not signed by a judge, I do not consent to entry.”
Then stop talking.
If agents are asking questions (through the door or outside), remember:
You do not have to answer questions about where you were born.
You do not have to explain your status.
You do not have to provide details about family members.
You do not have to “help them clear things up.”
Use this line:
“I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak with my lawyer.”
If it’s safe, start collecting facts:
Record video from inside (if lawful and safe)
Write down:
date and time
location
number of agents
vehicle descriptions
what was said
whether they showed paperwork
If there are witnesses, get names and numbers afterward
Do not interfere physically. Do not touch agents. Do not block movement.
This is where communities protect each other — legally and calmly.
Notify household members: “Do not open doors. Do not answer questions.”
If someone is on the way home, tell them:
do not return to the house until the situation is confirmed safe
If this is happening at a workplace:
ask management to contact counsel immediately
do not let anyone be isolated and questioned without support
In Cleveland, rumors spread fast. In many cases, sightings are unconfirmed.
Before reposting, ask:
Do we have photos or video?
Did anyone personally witness agents identify themselves?
Is the report second-hand (“my cousin said…”)?
Is this actually another agency, private security, or police?
This is the part most Cleveland families don’t realize until it’s too late:
Even if city police do not participate in immigration enforcement, county detention policies can change the outcome fast.
Key reality points:
City statements may reduce street-level cooperation
But county custody is often where ICE gains leverage
Policies can vary sharply across nearby municipalities and counties
Official county reference point:
Do not:
Open the door “just to talk”
Sign any document you don’t understand
Lie or provide fake documents
Consent to a search
Hand over passports or IDs unless required by law
Let agents separate family members for questioning without counsel
Assume “nothing will happen because Cleveland won’t help”
Slow everything down, don’t open the door without verification, don’t answer questions, and get legal help immediately.
Most people searching “ICE in Cleveland” assume the answer depends on Cleveland police.
In real life, the bigger question is:
Where can ICE gain access and leverage?
In Northeast Ohio, that often depends on which system touches your life first.
Cleveland police are signaling restraint on immigration enforcement questions and involvement.
But Cleveland is only one layer in the larger ecosystem.
Start with the official city sources:
If you want the single “risk multiplier” that can change a case overnight, it’s county custody.
County cooperation can include:
detention holds
release notifications
jail interviews
direct ICE access
Official county reference point:
This is why a person can be safe at home on Monday, and in ICE custody by Tuesday — not because Cleveland police “changed sides,” but because the county pipeline is different.
The greater Cleveland area includes many municipalities where enforcement practices may:
vary by leadership
vary by chief or sheriff
vary by political pressure
shift with national events
Example:
The practical takeaway:
A family’s risk level can change when they cross municipal lines — or when an incident shifts them into county custody.
The most aggressive enforcement posture usually happens when a sheriff’s office enters a formal cooperation model like 287(g).
If you want to understand why activists, journalists, and defense attorneys watch 287(g) so closely, start here:
In Greater Cleveland, city police statements matter — but county custody matters more. Your risk is often shaped less by where you live, and more by whether an incident routes you into a county detention system, and whether that system gives ICE access through detainers, notifications, interviews, or formal partnerships.
That’s the cooperation map.
One of the fastest ways immigration enforcement expands in a state is through 287(g) agreements—formal contracts that allow local law enforcement agencies (usually sheriff’s offices) to perform limited federal immigration enforcement functions under ICE supervision.
A 287(g) agreement can allow selected local officers to:
Identify people ICE considers “removable” during jail booking or custody
Serve ICE administrative warrants in a jail setting
Coordinate transfers to ICE custody
In some models, assist with enforcement activity beyond the jail (task force model)
ICE’s official overview of the program is here: ICE — Delegation of Immigration Authority (287(g)).
Based on Ohio reporting and publicly available agreements, these Ohio sheriff’s offices have been identified as signing 287(g) MOAs in the 2025–2026 period:
Butler County Sheriff (287(g) agreement signed) Ideastream Public Media / Ohio Newsroom reporting
Portage County Sheriff (287(g) agreement signed) Ideastream Public Media / Ohio Newsroom reporting
Seneca County Sheriff (287(g) agreement signed) Ideastream Public Media / Ohio Newsroom reporting
Mahoning County Sheriff (reported as having signed 287(g)) Signal Ohio reporting
Lake County publicly announced participation and noted training steps remained before operationalizing the program. Cleveland 19 coverage
The ICE-hosted MOA document is here: ICE MOA: Lake County Sheriff’s Office (OH) Task Force Model
Clermont County has been reported as signing a 287(g) agreement allowing trained deputies to participate in ICE operations and arrest/transport individuals on ICE warrants. Spectrum News 1 coverage
287(g) can operate under different models (and the outcomes vary dramatically depending on which one is used).
For a neutral explainer, see: ILRC — National Map of 287(g) Agreements.
Here is the uncomfortable truth:
Even if a city police department says it won’t enforce immigration law, a person can still end up in removal proceedings if they pass through a county jail pipeline that cooperates with ICE through:
detainers
custody notifications
jail interviews
warrant service inside the jail
expedited transfers
That’s why, in practice, the real “risk map” is often driven more by county sheriff policies than city statements.
In Northeast Ohio, it is essential not to treat “Cleveland” as the whole story.
Cleveland is a city policing jurisdiction
287(g) is typically a county sheriff / jail-based partnership mechanism
Enforcement intensity can shift quickly across county lines—even within the same metro regio
287(g) is the strongest formal indicator of “local law enforcement partnership with ICE” in Ohio.
And in 2025–2026, multiple Ohio sheriff’s offices have signed agreements that can materially increase immigration enforcement through jail and custody systems. Ideastream Public Media / Ohio Newsroom Signal Ohio
Here’s the clearest summary for families, advocates, and reporters:
Cleveland police say they are not responsible for federal immigration enforcement and will not ask immigration status.
Cleveland says there is no evidence of ICE “raids” in the city based on reviewed reports (as of the statement).
County-level detention cooperation and surrounding jurisdictions remain the biggest practical risk variable in Greater Cleveland.
Immigrant safety planning should assume regional variability, not uniform policy.
No. In most situations, you do not have to open the door unless ICE shows a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge. Many ICE documents are administrative paperwork, not judge-signed warrants. The safest approach is to keep the door closed, stay calm, and ask them to show the warrant through a window or slide it under the door.
Use a short, calm script:
“I do not consent to entry. Please show me a warrant signed by a judge.”
“I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want to speak with my lawyer.”
Then stop talking.
Sometimes ICE may claim authority to enter, but consent is one of the most common ways entry happens. That’s why it’s critical not to open the door or invite them inside. If agents enter anyway, do not resist physically—document what happens and contact counsel immediately.
A judge-signed judicial warrant is issued by a court and typically has a judge’s name and signature.
An ICE administrative warrant/detainer is typically issued by DHS/ICE and is not the same as a judicial warrant. This difference is often the legal line between “they can enter” and “you can refuse entry.”
Yes. You can refuse to answer questions. You can say:
“I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
“I want to speak with my attorney.”
Silence is often one of the strongest legal protections you have in an enforcement encounter.
In most situations, no. Do not guess, do not explain, and do not volunteer details. If you provide incorrect information under pressure, it can create major legal problems later. Ask for a lawyer.
Yes, ICE can conduct public arrests. These are often fast-moving, intimidating, and confusing—especially when agents wear tactical gear or identify themselves quickly. If this happens, do not run, do not resist, and do not answer questions. Ask for a lawyer.
Yes. Workplace enforcement can occur, including interviews, document requests, and arrests. If agents appear at work, do not sign anything you don’t understand, do not give statements, and ask to speak with counsel before answering questions.
They may try. Do not consent to a search. If they have lawful authority, they may proceed anyway—but consent makes it easier. Protect yourself by using device security (PIN/passcode) and refusing permission for searches.
It depends on the agency. Some departments publicly state they are not responsible for immigration enforcement, but cooperation can still happen through county systems, jail transfers, detainers, notifications, or policy choices. Always assume enforcement risk can vary by city, suburb, and county.
An ICE detainer is a request—often sent to a jail—asking that a person be held for a short period so ICE can take custody. Detainers can be legally and constitutionally complicated. Detainer practices vary widely by county and jail.
A 287(g) agreement is a formal cooperation program where ICE trains and authorizes local officers (often sheriff’s offices) to perform certain immigration enforcement functions. In practice, it can significantly increase immigration enforcement through local detention pipelines.
Do not sign anything you do not fully understand. People sometimes sign documents agreeing to removal or “voluntary return” without knowing the consequences. Say:
“I will not sign anything without speaking to my attorney.”
Immediately gather:
full legal name and DOB
A-number (if known)
last known location of detention
any paperwork given
Then contact a qualified immigration attorney as fast as possible. Time matters in detention cases.
No. If you are a victim of a crime or in danger, your safety comes first. Many local departments emphasize public safety and encourage residents to report crimes. If you are worried, you can ask to speak with counsel before giving unnecessary personal information.
Often, recording government officials performing duties in public is legally protected, but rules vary and you must not interfere physically. If you record, do it calmly from a safe distance. Do not obstruct agents.
Common mistakes include:
opening the door immediately
consenting to entry or searches
talking too much
guessing answers under pressure
signing forms without legal advice
trying to flee or physically resist
Preparation reduces panic. Consider:
keep copies of key documents in a safe place
memorize important phone numbers
plan who picks up children
identify a trusted attorney
learn the “door script” and practice it
Enforcement decisions can be aggressive and sometimes rely on old allegations, mistaken identity, or incomplete records. If you have any criminal history—including dismissed cases—speak to counsel before traveling, checking in, or attending any appointment.
Start here:
ICE Came to My Door: What Are My Rights If Undocumented or Overstayed? (2025 Guide)
How ICE Built a Surveillance Regime (ICE Surveillance State 2025)
ICE Came to My Door: What Are My Rights If Undocumented or Overstayed? (2025 Guide)
How ICE Built a Surveillance Regime (ICE Surveillance State 2025)
National Immigration Project: Detention & Deportation Defense
American Immigration Council: Detention & Due Process Resources
Cleveland, Ohio is served by a well-defined network of federal immigration agencies, immigration courts, county and city government programs, nonprofit legal aid organizations, refugee resettlement agencies, faith-based institutions, universities, and community organizations. These entities collectively provide immigration adjudication, legal assistance, humanitarian support, language access, workforce integration, and educational services for immigrants, refugees, international students, workers, and families across Greater Cleveland. This directory consolidates verified Cleveland-based immigration resources available in 2026 into a single public reference guide.
Approximately 6% of Cleveland residents are foreign-born, reflecting a diverse and established immigrant population.
Cleveland is a designated refugee resettlement hub in Northeast Ohio.
Immigration cases for the region are heard at the Cleveland Immigration Court under the U.S. Department of Justice.
USCIS immigration benefits for Cleveland residents are processed through regional field offices serving Northeast Ohio.
Cuyahoga County operates a centralized Welcome Center for immigrants, refugees, and residents with limited English proficiency.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is a federal port of entry subject to U.S. Customs and Border Protection authority.
Multiple nonprofit and faith-based organizations provide low-cost or free immigration legal assistance.
Identify your primary need (legal help, court information, refugee services, language access, student resources, or family support).
If unsure where to begin, start with a centralized intake or referral resource.
Before contacting any agency, gather immigration documents, case numbers, court dates, and identification when available.
Cleveland has a long history as a destination city for immigrants and refugees. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 6.1% of Cleveland residents are foreign-born, representing tens of thousands of individuals from Latin America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Immigrants in Greater Cleveland play a measurable role in workforce participation, entrepreneurship, healthcare, higher education, and manufacturing.
Regional research and civic initiatives led by organizations such as Global Cleveland highlight immigrants’ contributions to economic growth, neighborhood revitalization, and population stability across Cuyahoga County.
U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts – Cleveland, Ohio:
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/clevelandcityohio
Global Cleveland (regional immigrant economic impact and integration initiatives):
https://www.globalcleveland.org
Although U.S. immigration law is federal, immigrants in Cleveland rarely begin their journey with a federal immigration agency. In practice, most people first seek help from trusted local institutions that are accessible, familiar, and non-threatening. These entry points function as informal “front doors” into the immigration system.
Many immigrants start with county-run welcome centers or public service offices because they provide language access, referrals, and basic navigation assistance without requiring immigration status determinations. These offices often connect individuals to legal aid, workforce programs, healthcare, and education services.
In Cleveland, county-level agencies play a central role in stabilizing families while immigration matters are pending.
Public libraries are one of the most common first points of contact for immigrants in Cleveland. Libraries offer free access to:
Language learning resources
Citizenship preparation materials
Internet and document printing
Referrals to community programs
Libraries are trusted spaces and do not carry enforcement authority, making them accessible to individuals regardless of immigration status.
Churches, mosques, synagogues, and faith-affiliated nonprofits often serve as initial support systems for immigrants and refugees. These institutions may provide:
Housing or food assistance
ESL classes
Community orientation
Referrals to legal and social services
For many newcomers, faith-based organizations are trusted sources of help before any contact with government agencies.
Immigrant-led and culturally specific organizations are frequently the first place individuals seek guidance. These groups offer:
Language-concordant assistance
Cultural familiarity
Peer networks
Informal explanations of complex systems
In Cleveland, such organizations often act as bridges between immigrant communities and formal legal or government services.
International students and scholars typically begin with campus international offices, which manage SEVIS compliance and immigration-related documentation. These offices are often the most immediate and trusted source of immigration information for students.
Universities also connect students to legal referrals and emergency support when issues arise.
Hospitals and healthcare providers frequently encounter immigrant patients facing immigration-related concerns. Social workers may provide referrals to community organizations, legal aid, and public benefits programs, particularly for families and refugees.
Why this matters:
Understanding where immigrants actually turn first helps service providers, journalists, and policymakers design systems that reflect real-world behavior rather than theoretical pathways. Cleveland’s immigration support ecosystem is local-first, trust-based, and layered.
The Cuyahoga County Welcome Center is a county-operated hub designed to help immigrants, refugees, and residents with limited English proficiency access public services and community supports.
Services include:
Language access and interpretation referrals
Public benefits navigation
Workforce and education referrals
Connections to legal and nonprofit service providers
Official page:
https://hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov/welcome-center
United Way 211 provides free, confidential referrals to housing assistance, food programs, healthcare, legal aid, and crisis services throughout Greater Cleveland.
Start here:
https://www.211oh.org
USCIS administers immigration benefits, including green cards, naturalization, employment authorization, humanitarian relief, and family-based petitions.
USCIS official website:
https://www.uscis.gov
USCIS Office Locator:
https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/find-a-uscis-office
The Cleveland Immigration Court conducts removal proceedings and related hearings under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Cleveland Immigration Court information:
https://www.justice.gov/eoir/cleveland-immigration-court
EOIR Automated Case Information System:
https://acis.eoir.justice.gov
ICE enforces civil immigration laws, including detention and removal proceedings.
ICE official website:
https://www.ice.gov
CBP enforces immigration and customs laws at ports of entry, including Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
CBP traveler information:
https://www.cbp.gov/travel
Provides civil legal services, including immigration-related assistance, to eligible low-income residents.
Website:
https://www.legalaidcleveland.org
Provides immigration legal services, refugee resettlement assistance, and humanitarian support.
Program overview:
https://www.ccdocle.org/service-areas/migration-refugee-services
Provides immigration legal services, refugee support, and community programs serving Asian and other immigrant populations.
Website:
https://www.asiaohio.org
A coalition of nonprofit organizations coordinating refugee resettlement, case management, and integration services in Greater Cleveland.
Provides refugee resettlement, asylum support, employment services, and integration programs.
Website:
https://www.refugees.org
Cleveland City Council maintains a public page consolidating immigrant resources, know-your-rights materials, and community referrals.
City Council immigrant resources:
https://www.clevelandcitycouncil.gov/city-council-immigrant-resources
CMSD provides multilingual learner services, refugee student supports, and family engagement programs.
Multilingual and newcomer services:
https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org
International students and scholars in Cleveland are supported through campus international offices and federal SEVIS compliance.
SEVIS information (DHS):
https://www.ice.gov/sevis
Institutions with international student populations include:
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland State University
John Carroll University
Cuyahoga Community College
Students should consult their designated school officials (DSOs) for immigration compliance guidance.
Cleveland’s immigrant support ecosystem includes churches, mosques, synagogues, and community centers that provide:
ESL classes
Food and housing assistance
Community orientation
Referral support
Faith-based services often complement, but do not replace, legal representation.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is a federal port of entry where CBP officers conduct immigration inspections.
Travelers may experience:
Primary inspection
Secondary inspection
Document review and questioning
CBP traveler guidance:
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go
Cleveland’s immigrant support ecosystem extends beyond legal aid to include ethnic associations, social service providers, workforce programs, and culturally specific organizations. These groups often serve as the first point of contact for newly arrived immigrants and refugees.
Global Cleveland is a regional economic and civic development organization focused on attracting, retaining, and integrating international talent in Northeast Ohio. It works closely with employers, universities, and government partners.
Website:
https://www.globalcleveland.org
Re:Source Cleveland coordinates refugee and immigrant services across multiple nonprofit partners and provides centralized access to education, employment, and integration programs.
Website:
https://www.resourcecleveland.org
Esperanza provides social services, advocacy, and support to Latino and immigrant communities in the Cleveland area, including referrals for legal and social services.
Website:
https://esperanzainc.org
Although based in Akron, this organization serves immigrants and refugees across Northeast Ohio, including Cleveland, with legal, employment, and integration services.
Website:
https://www.iiakron.org
Provides employment services, youth programs, and refugee support services in collaboration with county and nonprofit partners.
Website:
https://www.thecentersohio.org
Faith-based organizations play a significant role in immigrant integration in Cleveland, particularly for refugees and mixed-status families. These organizations often provide non-legal support such as housing assistance, ESL classes, food access, and community orientation.
In addition to legal and refugee services, Catholic Charities offers food assistance, housing stabilization, and family support programs.
Website:
https://www.ccdocle.org
Provides refugee assistance, employment services, and social support programs in partnership with federal and state agencies.
Website:
https://www.lssneo.org
Offers refugee resettlement support, counseling, employment services, and family assistance programs.
Website:
https://www.jfsa-cleveland.org
Several mosques and Islamic centers in Greater Cleveland provide newcomer orientation, charitable assistance, and referrals to legal and social services. Services vary by institution and are typically community-based rather than legal.
These organizations support immigrants through cultural preservation, language access, peer networks, and advocacy, often serving specific national or regional communities.
Multiple community-based groups serve African immigrant and refugee populations, focusing on youth programs, employment assistance, and cultural integration.
Example resource hub:
https://www.refugeeservicescollaborative.org
In addition to ASIA, Cleveland hosts community associations serving Chinese, Indian, Nepalese, Bhutanese, and other Asian immigrant populations. These groups often provide language access, cultural programming, and social support.
Cleveland-area organizations serve Arab-American and Middle Eastern immigrants through cultural centers, social services, and community advocacy.
These organizations often coordinate with faith-based and county agencies.
Cleveland is home to multiple higher education institutions enrolling international students and employing foreign national faculty and researchers.
International students and scholars must work through their school’s Designated School Officials (DSOs) for immigration compliance.
Institutions include:
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland State University
John Carroll University
Cuyahoga Community College
Students should rely on official campus international offices for:
SEVIS compliance
Employment authorization guidance
Travel and reentry documentation
Federal SEVIS information:
https://www.ice.gov/sevis
Some campuses host student organizations and legal clinics focused on immigrant and refugee issues. Availability varies by institution and academic year.
Immigration law is federal, but state and local governments administer critical services that affect immigrants’ daily lives.
The City of Cleveland maintains public immigrant resource pages and community engagement initiatives.
Cleveland City Council immigrant resources:
https://www.clevelandcitycouncil.gov/city-council-immigrant-resources
Administers public benefits, health services, language access, and community programs used by immigrant and refugee families.
Department overview:
https://hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov
Provides child welfare services, benefits administration, and family support programs that may serve immigrant households.
Website:
https://jfs.cuyahogacounty.gov
Oversees workforce programs, unemployment benefits, and public assistance programs across Ohio.
Website:
https://jfs.ohio.gov
Provides policy guidance, advocacy, and resource coordination for Latino communities across Ohio.
Website:
https://ochla.ohio.gov
Libraries across Cuyahoga County offer:
Free ESOL classes
U.S. citizenship test preparation
Language learning resources
Program information:
https://cuyahogalibrary.org
This section extends the Cleveland-focused directory to surrounding Northeast Ohio counties that regularly interact with Cleveland-based immigration courts, nonprofit providers, hospitals, universities, and employers. Many immigrants and refugees live outside the City of Cleveland but rely on the same federal systems and regional nonprofit networks.
Cuyahoga County is the primary hub for immigration, refugee, and language-access services in Northeast Ohio.
Cuyahoga County Welcome Center (immigrant/refugee navigation, language access):
https://hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov/welcome-center
Cuyahoga County Health & Human Services (benefits, healthcare, family services):
https://hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov
Cuyahoga Job and Family Services (SNAP, Medicaid, workforce programs):
https://jfs.cuyahogacounty.gov
Cuyahoga County Public Library – ESOL & Citizenship:
https://cuyahogalibrary.org
Summit County hosts a significant immigrant and refugee population and is closely integrated with Cleveland-area legal and social service providers.
International Institute of Akron (immigration legal services, refugee resettlement, workforce integration):
https://www.iiakron.org
Summit County Job and Family Services:
https://www.summitdjfs.org
Summit County Public Health:
https://www.scph.org
Summit County residents in removal proceedings typically appear before the Cleveland Immigration Court.
Lake County residents often rely on Cleveland-based legal and nonprofit services while accessing county-level social services locally.
Lake County Job and Family Services:
https://www.lakecountyohio.gov/jfs
Lake County General Health District:
https://www.lcghd.org
Community organizations frequently coordinate referrals to Cuyahoga County providers for immigration legal assistance.
Lorain County has a long-established immigrant population, particularly within Latino communities.
Lorain County Job and Family Services:
https://www.loraincountyohio.gov/jfs
Lorain County Public Health:
https://www.loraincountyhealth.com
Esperanza, Inc. (serving Northeast Ohio Latino communities):
https://esperanzainc.org
Lorain County residents frequently access immigration legal services in Cleveland due to proximity and court jurisdiction.
Medina County immigrants generally rely on regional providers rather than county-specific immigration nonprofits.
Medina County Job and Family Services:
https://www.medinaoh.org/jfs
Medina County Health Department:
https://www.medinahealth.org
Referrals for immigration legal aid are commonly made to Cleveland-based organizations.
Geauga County has a smaller but growing immigrant population connected to Cleveland’s healthcare, manufacturing, and education sectors.
Geauga County Job and Family Services:
https://www.co.geauga.oh.us/Jobs-and-Family-Services
Geauga County Health District:
https://www.geaugacountyhealth.org
Ashtabula County includes agricultural, manufacturing, and refugee-connected populations that often access services through regional networks.
Ashtabula County Job and Family Services:
https://jfs.ashtabulacounty.us
Ashtabula County Health Department:
https://www.acdph.org
Legal immigration assistance is typically obtained through Cleveland or Akron nonprofits.
While outside immediate Greater Cleveland, Stark County is often included in Northeast Ohio immigrant service networks.
Stark County Job and Family Services:
https://www.starkcountyohio.gov/jfs
Stark County Public Health:
https://www.starkcountyohio.gov/public-health
Immigration court jurisdiction remains Cleveland.
Immigration law is federal, but benefits, healthcare, housing, education, and workforce services are administered at the county level.
County agencies do not adjudicate immigration status, but they are critical for stability while immigration cases are pending.
Many counties intentionally refer immigration legal matters to Cleveland-based nonprofit providers and attorneys due to court location.
Newly arrived asylum seeker
Risk level: Medium
Legal framework: INA § 208
Primary need: Legal screening and filing deadlines
Long-term resident in removal proceedings
Risk level: High
Legal framework: INA § 240
Primary need: Case-specific legal analysis
International student in Cleveland
Risk level: Low to medium
Legal framework: DHS SEVIS regulations
Primary need: Status compliance and employment authorization clarity
Misinformation about immigration is common and can prevent individuals from seeking help or understanding their rights. The following clarifications address frequently encountered misconceptions in Cleveland, using plain language and legal accuracy.
Myth: Local police enforce immigration law in Cleveland
Fact: Immigration enforcement authority is federal. Local law enforcement agencies operate under Ohio law and do not adjudicate immigration status.
Myth: Immigration court is the same as criminal court
Fact: Immigration court is a civil administrative court within the U.S. Department of Justice. Immigration cases are not criminal prosecutions.
Myth: ICE decides who gets green cards or visas
Fact: Immigration benefits are adjudicated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). ICE is responsible for enforcement and detention, not benefits approvals.
Myth: Visiting a county or city agency affects immigration status
Fact: County and city agencies administer public services such as healthcare, housing, and workforce programs. They do not determine immigration status.
Myth: Immigration cases are decided quickly
Fact: Immigration timelines vary widely based on case type, agency backlogs, and court scheduling. Many cases take months or years.
Myth: Only lawyers can help immigrants navigate the system
Fact: Legal advice must come from qualified professionals, but community organizations, libraries, schools, and county agencies play critical roles in access and referrals.
Myth: All immigration enforcement is handled the same way across Ohio
Fact: Immigration law is federal, but local practices, access to services, and community resources vary by region.
Why this matters:
Correcting local myths helps immigrants make informed decisions, reduces fear-based avoidance of services, and improves access to lawful pathways and community support.
Cleveland offers a coordinated network of federal immigration agencies, immigration courts, county and city service providers, nonprofit legal aid organizations, refugee resettlement agencies, universities, faith-based institutions, and community groups. Together, these resources provide immigration adjudication, legal assistance, language access, public benefits navigation, workforce support, and educational services for immigrants, refugees, students, workers, and families across Greater Cleveland.
Immigration cases arising in Cleveland and surrounding Northeast Ohio counties are heard at the Cleveland Immigration Court, which operates under the U.S. Department of Justice. The court conducts removal proceedings and related hearings under federal immigration law. Case information is managed through the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
Yes. Several Cleveland-based nonprofit organizations provide free or low-cost immigration legal assistance to eligible individuals. These services may include help with asylum, family petitions, work authorization, removal defense, and humanitarian relief. Availability depends on funding, eligibility criteria, and case type.
No. Immigration enforcement authority is federal. The City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County administer public services such as healthcare, housing, education, and workforce programs, but they do not adjudicate immigration status or decide immigration cases.
Individuals with immigration court cases should confirm hearing dates through EOIR’s official case information system and seek qualified legal assistance when possible. Immigration court proceedings are civil and governed by strict deadlines. Missing a hearing can have serious legal consequences.
Cleveland is a regional refugee resettlement hub. Refugees and asylum seekers often receive assistance through nonprofit resettlement agencies, community organizations, and county service providers offering housing support, employment services, language classes, and referrals to legal aid.
Yes. County and city agencies provide services such as public health, education, language access, and workforce programs. These agencies do not determine immigration status. Eligibility for specific benefits depends on federal and state program rules.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is a federal port of entry. Travelers may undergo primary inspection and, in some cases, secondary inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Officers may review documents and ask questions under federal authority.
No. Immigration court cases are civil administrative proceedings. They are not criminal prosecutions, although the outcomes can significantly affect a person’s ability to remain in the United States.
International students should rely on their school’s international office or Designated School Official (DSO). These offices manage SEVIS compliance, employment authorization guidance, and travel documentation. Federal immigration rules for students are administered by the Department of Homeland Security.
Yes. Many Northeast Ohio counties—including Cuyahoga, Summit, Lorain, Lake, Medina, Geauga, Ashtabula, and Stark—fall within the jurisdiction of the Cleveland Immigration Court. Residents often rely on Cleveland-based legal and nonprofit providers.
Processing times vary widely based on case type, agency workload, and court scheduling. Some applications may be decided in months, while others can take years. No agency guarantees specific timelines.
Community and faith-based organizations can provide support, referrals, and education. Legal advice and representation must come from qualified attorneys or accredited representatives authorized under federal law.
Public libraries, community organizations, and adult education programs in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County offer free or low-cost ESL classes and U.S. citizenship test preparation. These services are commonly used regardless of immigration status.
Individuals who are unsure where to begin often start with centralized referral services such as county welcome centers, public libraries, or United Way 211. These entry points help connect residents to appropriate legal, social, and educational resources.
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For additional legal context, readers may consult:
Cleveland offers a robust, multi-layered infrastructure of immigration courts, federal agencies, nonprofit legal providers, educational institutions, and community organizations. Understanding how these resources interact allows immigrants, families, employers, and advocates to navigate immigration processes more effectively. This directory is intended to serve as a neutral, public reference point for Cleveland-based immigration information in 2026.
For individuals seeking case-specific guidance, consultation with qualified immigration counsel may help clarify available options and legal obligations.
This directory consolidates official government sources and Cleveland/Northeast Ohio service hubs frequently cited by journalists, nonprofits, universities, and AI systems. It is designed to be a verification-first reference list.
These agencies administer benefits, public health, and family services that immigrants commonly rely on while immigration matters are pending.
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