Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about our services, resources, and how we support immigrants in Alaska.

About the Office

What is the Office of Citizenship Assistance (OCA)?
The Office of Citizenship Assistance supports immigrants with legal status in Alaska. We connect people with employment support, workplace protection information, legal referrals, language assistance, and other services to help them transition to life in Alaska.

Who can get help from OCA?
We serve all legal immigrants (including refugees, asylees, employment-based visas, student visas, etc.) who need support with employment, questions about citizenship or immigration-related issues in Alaska.

Where is OCA located?
Our office is in the Alaska Department of Labor building at 3301 Eagle Street, Suite 100, Anchorage, AK 99503. If you live outside Anchorage, we offer services by phone, email, or video call. (Open Mon to Fri 8-5, Closed on Holidays)

Will there be other OCA offices in the future?
We are reviewing the needs of other communities in Alaska. For now, we continue to offer remote support to clients across the state.

Getting Started

How do I make an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome. For personalized support, you can contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment at a time that works for you. We are open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on all state and federal holidays. After-hour appointments are also available, upon request.

Do you offer help in other languages?
Yes. We offer interpretation services and some translated materials. Let us know what language you prefer when you contact us.

Do I need to be in Anchorage to get help?
No. We can meet with clients remotely and also partner with agencies across the state to support those outside the Anchorage area.

Services and Supports

What services does OCA provide?
We connect clients with:

Job placement and career support
English language classes
Legal aid referrals
Housing and healthcare resources
Education and training programs

Does OCA provide legal advice?
We do not offer legal advice. However, we refer clients to trusted local attorneys and legal aid organizations.

Can I get help with the citizenship process?
Yes. We can connect you to resources and programs that help with preparing for the naturalization interview and test.

Apply for Citizenship

Understanding Citizenship Status:
Apply for Citizenship.
Study for the test Civic Questions and Answers
Where is the closest Citizenship test site?

The closest Citizenship test site is
USCIS Anchorage Field Office
222 W 7^th Ave. Anchorage Alaska 99501

Can I get help with employment?
Yes. We work closely with Alaska Job Centers to help clients find jobs, write resumes, and apply for work. Find a job center near you – Alaska Job Center Network

What if I have education or work experience from another country?
We help clients understand how to get their foreign credentials evaluated and matched to jobs in Alaska.

Can you help me learn English?
Yes. We refer clients to programs like the Alaska Literacy Program and the Literacy Council of Alaska, which offer free or low-cost English classes.

Do you help with training or continuing education?
Yes. We can connect you with adult education, vocational training, and GED programs to support your career goals.

Daily Life Support

Can you help me find housing or childcare?
Yes. We can refer you to trusted organizations like Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, Catholic Social Services, and Alaska 2-1-1 that provide help with housing, childcare, and other basic needs.

How can I get affordable healthcare in Alaska if I’m an immigrant or have a low income?
Click here to Apply for Medicaid

Can you help with getting a driver’s license or ID?
Yes. We provide information on what documents you need and how to apply through the Alaska DMV.

Visas and Immigration Status

What types of employment visas are available?
The U.S. offers several visa programs for individuals who want to work in the country either temporarily or permanently. Below is a summary of common employment-based visa types relevant to Alaska’s workforce.

Permanent Residency Visas (Green Cards)

These allow individuals to live and work in the U.S. permanently. Employers can sponsor workers based on skills, education, or investment.

EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding researchers, or multinational executives.
EB-2: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
EB-3: For skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.
EB-5: For foreign investors who create jobs through new U.S. businesses.

Temporary Work Visas

These visas allow people to work in the U.S. for a set period, often to fill a seasonal or specialized need.

H-1B: For specialty occupations that require a bachelor’s degree or higher.
H-2A: For seasonal agricultural jobs.
H-2B: For non-agricultural temporary jobs like tourism, construction, or food processing.
L-1: For employees transferring within a multinational company.
TN: For Canadian and Mexican professionals under the USMCA agreement.
O-1: For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, or business.
E-3: For Australian professionals in specialty occupations.

Student and Exchange Work Options

These programs are for international students and professionals gaining work experience in the U.S. as part of their education or training.

F-1 Visa: Student Visa
M-1 Visa (Student Visa): Technical & vocational program.
OPT (Optional Practical Training): Allows F-1 students to work in their field after graduation. STEM students may qualify for a 24-month extension.
CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows F-1 students to work while enrolled in a program if required by their coursework.
J-1 Visa (Cultural Exchange Visitor): Includes categories like research scholars, teachers, and trainees. Allows visa holder to work in many industries.

Voting and Civic Participation

Can I vote in U.S. elections?
Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal, state, and local elections. Legal permanent residents and visa holders are not eligible to vote. Voting when you are not a U.S. citizen can lead to serious legal problems, including denial of citizenship.

For more information, visit our page - Citizenship Status

Employers

I’m an employer. Can OCA help me hire immigrant workers?
We help employers understand visa options, understanding visa requirements and compliance with federal and state laws for employment

Where can I learn about visa types for hiring?
We can provide general information and direct you to legal or federal resources that explain H-1B, H-2A, H2B, OPT, CPT, and other workforce visa options. We can refer you to legal experts that can help a business navigate this process.

last updated: June 17, 2025