One of the benefits of immigrating to the United States is that Americans are afforded a number of civil rights that protect them from government overreach and discrimination. But are these same rights offered to immigrants? Here’s what you should know and how an experienced Texas immigration law attorney can help you navigate the process of coming to America.

Constitutional Protections

All individuals in the United States have the freedom from unreasonable search and seizure under the 4th Amendment, regardless of that person’s immigration status. They are also guaranteed due process and may not be discriminated against by law enforcement for their ethnicity or race.

Labor Laws

Immigrants also have the right to earn minimum wage and overtime pay as established by the U.S. Department of Labor no matter their status. They can participate in worker unions and workplaces who employ them must abide by minimum health and occupational safety regulations. Immigrants who report employers for violations are also protected by whistleblower laws.

Civil Rights

It’s against the law for organizations to discriminate against immigrants in the areas of housing, education, employment, and public places like hotels and restaurants. This protection extends to ethnicity, race, gender, age, disability status, religion, and national origin.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants may not be denied certain types of housing or public education opportunities, and there are laws that prohibit organizations that employ immigrants from engaging in document abuse and citizenship discrimination.

Consumer Protection Laws

Consumer protection laws also extend to immigrants regardless of their status. Businesses may not engage in deceptive or unfair advertising or trade practices and individuals who are injured as a result may seek damages, even if they are an immigrant.

For example, an immigrant who purchases a product that malfunctions and causes an injury that requires surgery is still eligible to pursue legal action against the product manufacturer.

Get Help From An Experienced Texas Immigration Attorney Now 

To successfully immigrate to the U.S., you need the help of a veteran Texas attorney who can guide you through the process of navigating complicated entry laws.

Call Eluid Zavala now for more information or to book a consultation to learn more about immigration regulations or to discuss your legal needs. Dial (713) 588-2132 for our Greenspoint Park location or (713) 766-6720 to speak to our team in Houston.