essential INFORMATION POST RESETTLEMENT
Resource Sharing and Community Support
We connect community members to essential resources including immigration support, education, and healthcare. Our goal is to make it easier for people to find trusted information, navigate services, and access the help they need.
Understanding Immigration: A Community Guide
This guide explains basic steps in immigration court and provides resources for legal help in Indiana.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Immigration law is complex and every case is different. If possible, speak with a qualified immigration lawyer.
Your Rights in Immigration Court
If you are in immigration court, you still have important rights.
Right to an attorney
You have the right to be represented by an attorney, but the government will not provide one for free. You can hire a lawyer or seek help from a nonprofit legal organization.
Right to review the evidence
You have the right to see and review the evidence the government is using against you in your case.
Right to present your case
You have the right to speak on your own behalf, present evidence, and call witnesses to support your case.
Right to request more time
You may ask the judge for more time to find a lawyer or prepare your case.
Right to an interpreter
If you are not comfortable speaking English, you have the right to a court interpreter during your hearing.
Right to appeal
If the judge makes a decision against you, you may have the right to appeal that decision to a higher immigration court.
Step One: Master Calendar Hearings (Preliminary Hearings)
The first hearing is called a Master Calendar Hearing (MCH). It is a short hearing, usually about 10–15 minutes. The judge does not decide your case at this hearing. Instead, the judge reviews basic information and schedules the next steps.
At the first hearing the judge may:
• Confirm your name, address, and preferred language
• Explain why the government believes you can be removed from the United States
• Ask whether you have a lawyer or need time to find one
• Ask what type of protection or relief you plan to apply for
You may have several Master Calendar hearings before your main hearing if you need time to gather documents or find legal help.
How to prepare
• Bring all court notices and identification documents
• Arrive early to allow time for courthouse security
• Dress neatly and speak clearly
• If you do not understand English, request an interpreter
Step Two: Individual Hearing (Merits Hearing)
The Individual Hearing is your main court hearing. This is when the judge reviews all evidence and decides whether you qualify to remain in the United States.
What happens at the hearing
• You or your lawyer present evidence and witnesses
• You will be sworn in and testify under oath
• The immigration judge and government lawyer may ask questions
• The government lawyer may challenge your evidence or argue that you do not qualify for relief
Questions you may be asked include:
• Why did you leave your country?
• What happened to you or your family there?
• Who harmed or threatened you?
• Why were you targeted?
• Do you fear harm if you return?
• Are there other places in your country where you could live safely?
• Has anyone in your family experienced similar harm?
• When did you arrive in the United States?
• Why did you not apply for asylum earlier?
How to prepare
• Gather important documents such as passports, birth certificates, police reports, medical records, school records, or letters of support
• Practice explaining your story clearly and truthfully
• Organize your documents so they are easy to present in court
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early
Step Three: After the Decision
After the hearing, the immigration judge will issue a decision.
Possible outcomes
Win: You may be allowed to remain in the United States and take the next steps in your immigration process such as applying for a work permit, permanent residency, or another form of relief.
Loss: The judge may issue an order of removal (deportation).
Appeals
If you lose your case, you generally have 30 days to appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). You must file Form EOIR-26.
The BIA does not hold new hearings. It reviews the immigration judge’s decision and written arguments from you or your lawyer.
If the BIA agrees with you, the case may be sent back to Immigration Court for another decision.
If you do not appeal, the removal order becomes final after 30 days.
Legal Help and Immigration Resources in Indiana
Free or low cost legal services
Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services
Indianapolis
https://www.archindy.org/cc/immigration
Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic
Indianapolis and Fort Wayne
https://www.nclegalclinic.org
Indiana Legal Services
https://www.indianalegalservices.org
Indiana Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON)
https://www.jfon.org/indiana
National Immigrant Justice Center
Chicago (serves Indiana)
https://immigrantjustice.org
American Immigration Lawyers Association Lawyer Search
https://ailalawyer.com
Exodus Refugee Immigration
Provides refugee resettlement support, employment assistance, and legal services.
https://www.exodusrefugee.org
Immigrant Welcome Center
Provides community navigation, education programs, and resources for immigrants in Indianapolis.
https://www.immigrantwelcomecenter.org
Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance
Advocacy and community support for undocumented young people.
https://iuya.org
Asian Pacific American Legal Center of Indiana
Provides immigration legal services and community support.
https://apalcindy.org
Emergency and Community Support
211 Indiana
Connects residents with health care, legal aid, food assistance, and other services.
https://in211.communityos.org
Low Cost Immigration Consultations
Some private immigration lawyers offer consultations for approximately $50 to $150. Always confirm fees before scheduling an appointment. Speaking with a lawyer early can help you understand your options and avoid mistakes in your case.
Know Your Rights and How to Protect Yourself
If You Are Stopped or Detained by ICE
Understanding your rights can help you stay safe if you encounter law enforcement or immigration officers. The information below explains general rights and steps people can take to prepare.
Your Rights
Everyone in the United States has certain rights during encounters with law enforcement or immigration officers.
• You have the right to remain silent
• You can clearly say: “I choose to remain silent.”
• You do not have to answer questions about where your immigration status
• You do not have to consent to searches of your body or belongings
Important notes:
• Police may pat down clothing if they believe a person may have a weapon
• Different rules may apply at airports or international borders
• If detained by ICE, you have the right to speak with a lawyer
Reducing Risk During an Encounter
If you interact with police or immigration officers, try to remain calm and avoid actions that could be interpreted as resisting or interfering with officers.
• Stay calm and do not resist or obstruct officers
• Do not lie or present false documents
• Do not run or argue with officers
• Keep your hands visible and follow lawful instructions
What To Do If You Are Arrested or Detained
If you are arrested or detained, it is important to remain calm and protect your rights.
• Say clearly: “I want to remain silent and speak to a lawyer.”
• Do not answer questions about your immigration status
• Do not sign documents without speaking to a lawyer
• Do not provide explanations or excuses
If arrested by police:
• You have the right to make a phone call
• Conversations with your lawyer cannot be listened to by police
If detained by immigration authorities:
• You have the right to contact your country’s consulate
• You may ask officers to notify your consulate of your detention
If ICE Comes to Your Home
If officers come to your door:
• Do not open the door unless they show a warrant signed by a judge
• Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or hold it up to a window
• Remain calm and do not run
• You have the right to remain silent
If You Believe Your Rights Were Violated
If you believe officers violated your rights, document what happened as soon as possible.
• Write down everything you remember about the incident
• Record badge numbers, patrol car numbers, and agency names if possible
• Get names and contact information for witnesses
• Take photographs of injuries if you were harmed
• Seek medical attention if needed
You may also file a complaint.
• File a complaint with the agency involved (such as internal affairs)
• Complaints can often be filed anonymously
• A lawyer or legal organization may help you file the complaint
Additional Preparation Tips
• Memorize important phone numbers for family members and your lawyer
• Memorize your immigration number (“A number”) if you have one
• Give this number to trusted family members
• Keep copies of immigration documents with someone you trust
• Create an emergency plan with family
• Arrange care for children if needed
• Inform trusted family members if you take medication or have health needs
Education
Indiana offers several pathways for people who want to continue their education or build new skills. Whether someone is finishing high school, pursuing college, or training for a skilled trade, there are accessible programs across the state.
High School Equivalency (GED)
Adults who did not complete high school can earn an Indiana High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma by passing the GED exam. The GED is the test used in Indiana to earn this credential. After passing the exam, the State of Indiana issues an HSE Diploma, which is recognized the same as a high school diploma for employment, vocational programs, and college admission.
The GED exam includes four subject areas: reasoning through language arts (reading and writing), mathematical reasoning, science, and social studies.
Basic eligibility requirements in Indiana generally include:
• Being at least 18 years old (or 16–17 with special permission)
• Not currently enrolled in high school
• Living in Indiana before taking the exam
Free preparation classes are available through Indiana Adult Education programs, which provide reading, math, and writing instruction to help adults prepare for the test.
Useful Resources:
Indiana Adult Education Programs
https://www.in.gov/dwd/career-training-adult-ed/adult-ed/
GED information and testing
https://www.ged.com
Indiana Online Only Adult Education (online GED program)
https://www.iooadulted.com
The Excel Center (free high school for adults)
https://excelcenter.org
Associate Degrees (Two Year College)
An associate degree is a two year college program that can lead directly to employment or transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. Many students begin at community colleges because they are more affordable and flexible.
Indiana’s largest community college system is Ivy Tech Community College, which has campuses across the state and offers programs in healthcare, business, information technology, engineering technology, education, and more.
Common associate degrees include:
Associate of Arts (AA)
Associate of Science (AS)
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Requirements:
• High school diploma or GED / HSE diploma
• Completed college application
• High school transcripts or GED scores
• Placement testing for math and English in some cases
• Some programs may require background checks or additional prerequisites (for example nursing or healthcare programs)
Students who complete an associate degree can often transfer their credits to a four year university.
Useful Resources:
Ivy Tech Community College
https://www.ivytech.edu
Vincennes University
https://www.vinu.edu
Indiana Commission for Higher Education
https://www.in.gov/che
Bachelor’s Degrees (Four Year University)
A bachelor’s degree typically takes about four years to complete at a university. Students may begin after high school or GED, or they may transfer after completing an associate degree.
Bachelor’s degrees are required for many careers including teaching, engineering, social work, business management, healthcare administration, and public policy.
Requirements:
• High school diploma or GED / HSE diploma
• Completed college application
• High school transcripts or college transcripts (for transfer students)
• Some universities require SAT or ACT scores
• Minimum GPA requirements depending on the school
• Some programs such as engineering or nursing may require additional coursework or prerequisites
Major Universities:
Indiana University
https://www.iu.edu
Purdue University
https://www.purdue.edu
Ball State University
https://www.bsu.edu
Indiana State University
https://www.indstate.edu
Vocational and Workforce Training
Indiana offers many vocational and career training programs that allow people to learn practical skills and enter the workforce quickly. Many of these programs can be completed in a few months to one year and are offered through community colleges, workforce training programs, and technical schools. Some programs may be free or heavily subsidized through state programs such as the Workforce Ready Grant.
State Workforce Training Programs
Indiana offers the Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant, which can cover tuition and fees for eligible certificate programs in high demand industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, information technology, and transportation.
Eligibility generally includes
• Indiana residency
• High school diploma or GED
• Enrollment in an approved training program
• Completion of financial aid forms such as FAFSA
Resource:
Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant
https://www.in.gov/dwd/nextleveljobs
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Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
CDL programs train students to operate commercial trucks and buses. Training typically includes classroom instruction, safety training, and hands on driving practice. Programs can often be completed in about four weeks.
Requirements
• At least 18 years old for in state driving (21 for interstate driving)
• Valid driver’s license
• Passing a written permit test and driving skills test
• Medical certification for commercial drivers
Ivy Tech CDL Training
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/signature-opportunities-for-students/cdl-training
160 Driving Academy
https://www.160drivingacademy.com
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Healthcare Support Careers
Healthcare vocational programs train students for entry level roles in hospitals, clinics, and long term care facilities. Common programs include Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), medical assistant, phlebotomist, and pharmacy technician.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED / HSE diploma
• Background check and drug screening
• Some programs require basic reading or math testing
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training
https://cnaclassesinindianapolis.com/ivy-tech-community-college-certified-nursing-aide-program/
Ivy Tech Health Programs
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-nursing/
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Skilled Trades
Skilled trades include careers such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, and construction technicians. Many of these careers offer apprenticeships where students earn wages while training.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED
• Physical ability to perform manual work
• Apprenticeship or technical training program
Ivy Tech Construction and Skilled Trades
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/
Indiana Apprenticeship Programs
https://www.in.gov/dwd/apprenticeships
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Manufacturing and Industrial Technology
Indiana has a strong manufacturing sector and offers training for careers such as industrial maintenance technician, robotics technician, CNC machinist, and production technician. Many of these programs lead to certificates that can later be applied toward an associate degree.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED
• Basic math and reading skills
• Completion of a certificate or technical training program
Industrial Technology programs
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-advanced-manufacturing-engineering-applied-science/industrial-technology/
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Information Technology (IT)
Short term IT training programs prepare students for careers in technology fields such as cybersecurity, computer support, and network administration. Many programs focus on industry certifications.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED
• Basic computer skills
• Completion of certification training
Ivy Tech Information Technology programs
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/
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HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
HVAC programs train technicians to install and repair heating and cooling systems in homes and commercial buildings. Programs usually take about one year and can lead to technical certificates.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED
• Basic math and technical training
HVAC Technology Certificate
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-advanced-manufacturing-engineering-applied-science/heating-ventilation-air-conditioning-technology-hvac/
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Automotive and Diesel Technology
Automotive technology programs train students to diagnose and repair vehicles, engines, and mechanical systems.
Requirements
• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of technical training
• Industry certifications may be required for certain jobs
Ivy Tech Automotive Technology
https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/
Healthcare
The resources below provide free or low cost healthcare services in Indiana, particularly in the Indianapolis area. Many clinics serve patients regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. Always contact the organization directly to confirm services and eligibility.
Health Insurance and Medicaid
Indiana Medicaid provides free or low cost health coverage for eligible residents including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Hoosier Healthwise is Indiana’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for children under age 19 and pregnant women. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, dental care, and preventive services.
Indiana Medicaid
https://www.in.gov/medicaid
Hoosier Healthwise (children and pregnant women)
https://www.in.gov/medicaid/members/children
Medicaid enrollment assistance
+1.800.889.9949
Free and Low Cost Medical Clinics
Free clinics provide basic medical care for uninsured patients. Services often include physical exams, women’s health visits, screenings, and referrals.
Gennesaret Free Clinics
https://www.gennesaret.org
Offers free walk in medical clinics, women’s health care, and dental services by appointment. Translation services including Arabic may be available.
317.955.0217
IU Student Outreach Clinic
https://medicine.iu.edu/indianapolis/service-learning/outreach-clinic
A free clinic run by the Indiana University School of Medicine providing primary care, screenings, and referrals for uninsured patients.
Near West Free Clinic
https://nearwestfreeclinic.org
Provides free health screenings, pediatric care, and basic medical services. No insurance or ID required. Arabic interpreters are available.
Heart and Soul Free Clinic
https://heartandsoulclinic.org
Provides free healthcare for uninsured adults and children including physicals, immunizations, and mental health support.
Community Health Centers
Community health centers provide full medical care and charge sliding scale fees based on income. They often provide primary care, mental health services, dental care, and pharmacy support.
Jane Pauley Community Health Center
https://janepauleychc.org
Offers primary care, pediatrics, OB GYN services, dental care, mental health services, and pharmacies. Sliding scale fees are available and Medicaid is accepted.
Action Health Center (Marion County Public Health Department)
https://marionhealth.org/programs/population-health/adolescent-health
Provides family medicine services including pediatric and women’s healthcare for patients ages 0 to 26.
HealthNet Community Health Centers
https://www.indyhealthnet.org
Provides medical, dental, behavioral health, and prenatal services across multiple Indianapolis locations.
Dental Services
Several programs provide free or low cost dental services for uninsured patients.
Gennesaret Dental Clinic
https://www.gennesaret.org
Provides free dental care including exams, fillings, and extractions for uninsured patients.
Trinity Free Clinic
https://www.trinityfreeclinic.org
Offers dental services including cleanings, X rays, fillings, and extractions for patients aged 12 and older.
Indiana University School of Dentistry
https://dentistry.iu.edu/patients/index.html
Low cost dental care provided by supervised dental students. Emergency walk in clinics are available.
Jane Pauley Community Health Center Dental
https://janepauleychc.org
Provides routine dental care on a sliding fee scale.
Mental Health Services
Mental health support is available through community clinics and counseling programs.
Eskenazi Health Midtown Mental Health
https://www.eskenazihealth.edu/midtown
Provides counseling, psychiatric services, and addiction treatment programs.
Jane Pauley Community Health Center Behavioral Health
https://janepauleychc.org
Offers counseling and mental health services at multiple locations.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Indiana)
https://www.namiindiana.org
Provides mental health education, peer support groups, and referrals.
Women’s Health and Pregnancy Services
Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-indiana-kentucky
Provides reproductive health care, birth control, pregnancy testing, and screenings.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program
https://www.in.gov/health/wic
Provides food assistance, nutrition education, and health referrals for pregnant women and young children.
Community Health Network Women’s Health
https://www.ecommunity.com/services/womens-health
Medical Debt and Legal Assistance
Some organizations help patients reduce medical bills or access financial assistance.
Dollar For
https://dollarfor.org
Helps patients apply for hospital charity care programs to reduce or eliminate medical debt.
Indiana Legal Services
https://www.indianalegalservices.org/applyonline
Provides free legal assistance for low income residents dealing with medical debt, insurance denials, and consumer issues.
Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic
https://www.nclegalclinic.org
Offers legal advice on immigration, housing, and debt issues including medical bills.
Language and Interpretation Services
Many healthcare providers offer translation services to help patients communicate with doctors and staff. Clinics known to provide interpreters include:
Gennesaret Free Clinics
https://www.gennesaret.org
Jane Pauley Community Health Center
https://janepauleychc.org
Near West Free Clinic
https://nearwestfreeclinic.org
Most hospitals and clinics also provide phone interpretation services. Patients can request an Arabic speaking provider or interpreter when scheduling an appointment.