From Arriving to Thriving

At the International Institute of Minnesota, we help immigrants and refugees make Minnesota their home.

 

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Programs for You

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  • Teacher teaching immigrants english
    English Classes

    We offer free classes online and in-person for adult refugees, immigrants and asylees.

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  • Portrait of immigrant family enjoying the snow
    Citizenship and Immigration Help

    We help with filing for U.S. citizenship and offer other immigration services.

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  • two people working on class work
    Classes and Job Trainings

    Learn about our many free classes and job trainings that support your journey as a New American.

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Did You Know?

Our clients, students and staff come from all over the world, contributing to Minnesota’s culture, labor market and economy.

  • 140,000 +

    Hours

    of English instruction provided last year.

  • 121

    Countries

    Last year, we worked with 6,017 clients from all over the world.

  • 28

    Languages

    We’re proud to have a diverse staff that supports our clients.

  • 105 +

    Years

    years serving New Americans since our founding in 1919.

Four women of different ethnicities wear bright colors and smile.

What’s New?

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  • Newsletter

    September 2026

    In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

    • Support Institute through new partnership album ‘MaximumMN’
    • Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
    • Citizenship Day: Louis’ Story
    • Small Business Resource Fair: September 25
    Read More

  • Stories

    National Hispanic Heritage Month 2026

    September 15 through October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. We have several staff members at the Institute who identify as Hispanic or Latino who shared what their heritage means to them and their work. 

     

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  • Stories

    Louis’ Citizenship Story

    Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Louis spent nearly two decades in a refugee camp in neighboring Zambia before he and his family were resettled in Minnesota in 2019. Six years later, with help from the Institute’s immigration team, Louis became a U.S. citizen. “[I was] over the moon about getting citizenship. It was a privilege that day to become an American. It was a dream come true,” he said about the experience.

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Welcome to the International Institute of Minnesota

We empower New Americans as they begin new lives and achieve their full potential. Our comprehensive services range from refugee resettlement and citizenship and immigration support to English education, college preparation, and workforce and leadership development. Since our founding in 1919, the Institute has been a pillar of support for New Americans as they journey to safety, stability and success.

  • Compassion

    We lead with compassion, listen with patience, and respond with sensitivity and discretion to every unique situation, individual and family we meet.

  • Connection

    We serve as a bridge between families, individuals and the greater Minnesota community as well as donors, policymakers and volunteers alike.

  • Respect

    We believe in fostering the potential of every New American to learn, grow, thrive and enrich our Minnesota community.

What Our Clients Are Saying

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  • I always remember people in my heart. I never forget this place.

    Thuan

    Read Her Story

  • I found a place that really cares about people. Not only just cares, but they’re seeing the future of this generation.

    Ahmed

    Read His Story

  • I can say I have a good start of my life in USA (because of IIMN).”

    Yolande

    Read Her Story

Make an Impact

With your support, we can provide New Americans with a strong start to a new life. Whether it’s the gift of financial support, your time or resources, we are most grateful for your generosity; it is essential to the success of our community.

Give Now Volunteer
A man writing in class looks up and smiles at the camera.