Employment and Housing

Know Your Rights: We all have rights. Understand your rights and those of your family, and know where to report if they are violated.

Inform yourself: Learn which organizations provide services and how to access them.

Prepare/Plan: Learn how to create an action plan for you and your family.

Disclaimer: This information does not constitute legal advice. The law is constantly changing and every case is different. Do not rely on this information to make decisions that may affect you legally. If you need legal assistance, consult a qualified attorney.

Job vacancies

Undocumented workers have almost all of the legal rights guaranteed by federal and California law, with some exceptions related primarily to unemployment insurance and union organizing.

Know Your Labor Rights

Right to a Safe Workplace: Employees have the right to a safe environment under OSHA regulations.
Right not to be discriminated against: Protection against discrimination based on race, gender, disability, etc.
Right to Fair Wages and Hours: Right to receive at least the minimum wage and overtime pay.
Family and Medical Leave Entitlement: Up to 12 weeks of unpaid FMLA leave.
Right to Freedom from Retaliation: Protection from retaliation for reporting workplace violations.

Inform yourself

Learn more about your labor rights through the Legal Aid at Work Self-Help Library.

Legal Support

California Rural Legal Aid

Salinas Office: 3 Williams Rd, Salinas, CA 93905 | Phone: +1 831-757-5221

Watsonville Office: 21 Carr St, Watsonville, CA 95076 | Phone: +1 831-724-2253

Housing

Undocumented individuals have many of the same housing rights as other residents, including protection under federal and California laws.

5 Main Housing Rights

Right to Not Be Discriminated in Housing: Protection against discrimination by landlords.
Right to Safe and Habitable Housing: Rental properties must meet health and safety standards.
Right to Privacy: Landlords must provide notice before entering a rental unit.
Right to Protection from Retaliation: Protection against retaliation by the owner.
Right to a Legal Eviction Process: Evictions must follow proper legal procedures.

Legal Support

Tenant's Sanctuary

Address: 703 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, California | Phone: (831) 200-0740 | Email: info@tenantsanctuary.or