Warning: If you need your visit to this site to remain confidential, please click here.

 

Coming to a new country is always difficult. If you are a new immigrant, you may not speak English. There are new customs to learn. Often you are very homesick for family, friends, and your homeland. Fears about not knowing the language, customs, and laws can make you feel isolated. This is especially a concern if you are experiencing domestic violence.

There are ways to protect yourself and your children. Immigrant victims of domestic violence have legal rights and options in the United States! You have the right to be safe in your own home, to leave anyone who is abusing you, and to make decisions about your life.

Call 1-866-644-3574 to contact the domestic violence crisis center nearest you. If you are not in New Hampshire, you can contact your local crisis center by calling 1-800-799-7233. Interpreters are available in many languages. You do not have to be in crisis to call. The crisis center staff will not contact the Immigration and Naturalization Service or your partner, and will be glad to help you in any way they can.

In an emergency, you should always call 9-1-1 if you think you or your children are in danger. If the police ask about your immigration status or where you were born, you do not have to answer. You should also call 9-1-1 in a medical emergency. The emergency room in any public hospital must give you emergency medical care, even if you are undocumented or do not have insurance.

Whether you are a documented or undocumented immigrant, help is available from your local crisis center. It is free and confidential. You do not have to pay for help from the crisis center.

One of the services offered by domestic violence crisis centers is emergency shelter in a safe place where you and your children can live for a period of time if you are trying to leave an abusive relationship. They can also give you information about applying for welfare benefits.

It is very important to remember that if you do not understand what your immigration status is, you should call an immigration attorney. DO NOT call the INS. You may be able to get a green card to allow you to stay in the United States without your husband's help or knowledge, through the Violence Against Women Act. If you are undocumented and planning on getting a divorce, you should contact an immigration attorney before getting a divorce.

You can order a brochure about Domestic Violence and Immigrant Women from the Coalition