Abstract Objective: To describe the discourse of nurses and physicians on the use of emergency services by immigrants. Method: Descriptive and exploratory study, with qualitative approach, carried out inan emergency public unit located at the north of Paraná. Sixteen health professionals were interviewed through a semi-structured questions. The interviews were audio-taped and their contents, after transcription, submitted to French discourse analysis. Results: It was identified, according to professionals, that immigrants seek emergency services mainly due to work-related problems, because they are unaware on how the Brazilian health system works and because they have difficulties to access other services. In addition, communication, cultural, professional, socioeconomic, and prejudice barriers were highlighted as influencing the care for the immigrant population. Conclusion and implications for practice: Given such findings, it is imperative to develop orientation and preparation activities for the immigrant population on the Brazilian culture and health system and health professionals regarding the cultural and socio-sanitary profile of the immigrant population, thus enhancing the adequate search of the users and the qualified care.