Know Your Rights: Essential Immigration Resources Now Available in Vietnamese

Written By NCVAA Administrator

NCVAA is proud to announce the availability of two critical "Know Your Rights" resources in Vietnamese, made possible through the leadership of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) in translating these vital documents from the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

Available Resources

We are now providing Vietnamese translations of two essential immigration rights documents:

1. Know Your Rights - General Immigration Rights Information
Download Vietnamese Version | Download English Version

This comprehensive flyer provides fundamental information about your rights when interacting with immigration enforcement, including what to do if approached by immigration officers, your right to remain silent, and how to protect yourself and your family.

2. What to Do If You Are Detained at a U.S. Port of Entry (for Lawful Permanent Residents)
Download Vietnamese Version | Download English Version

This resource provides specific guidance for lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who may be detained when entering or re-entering the United States, including information about your rights, what questions you may be asked, and how to seek legal assistance.

Why These Resources Matter

The Vietnamese American community has a deep and enduring connection to the promise of America as a place of refuge, opportunity, and justice. Many in our community came to this country as refugees, asylum seekers, or immigrants seeking a better life. Understanding your rights is not just about legal protection—it's about dignity, empowerment, and ensuring that the freedoms we cherish are accessible to everyone, regardless of language.

Language access is justice. Having these resources available in Vietnamese ensures that our community members—including parents, grandparents, and those who are more comfortable reading in Vietnamese—can fully understand their rights and take informed action if needed. In times of uncertainty, knowledge is power, and understanding your rights is the first step in protecting yourself and your loved ones.

A Community Effort

These translations represent the collective effort of dedicated individuals who understand the importance of serving our community. We extend our deepest gratitude to:

  • NAPABA for their leadership in coordinating these translations and ensuring they are available to Asian American and Pacific Islander communities nationwide

  • AILA for creating these essential resources and making them freely available to the public

  • Binh Nguyen, who did the heavy lifting to ensure the translations were accurate, natural, and culturally appropriate from a native Vietnamese speaker's perspective

  • Kim Luu-Ng, who graciously volunteered her time to double-check the vendor's translation and ensure quality and clarity

Their volunteer work exemplifies the best of our legal community: using our skills and expertise to serve those who need it most.

How You Can Help

Share These Resources Widely

Please distribute these materials to:

  • Family members, friends, and neighbors

  • Community organizations and cultural centers

  • Churches, temples, and religious communities

  • Social service agencies

  • Vietnamese-language media outlets

  • School communities and parent groups

Know When to Seek Legal Help

While these resources provide important general information, they are not a substitute for legal advice. If you or someone you know is facing immigration enforcement action, detention, or has questions about their specific situation, please seek assistance from a qualified immigration attorney.

Stay Informed

NCVAA is committed to keeping our community informed about legal developments that affect Vietnamese Americans. Follow us on social media and check our website regularly for updates, resources, and opportunities to connect with legal professionals who can help.

Additional Resources

For more information about immigration rights and legal resources:

If you need assistance finding an immigration attorney, please contact NCVAA at info@ncvaa.org.

Join Us in Serving Our Community

NCVAA's mission is to promote the professional development of Vietnamese American attorneys while providing service and leadership to our community. If you are an attorney interested in volunteering your time to help translate materials, provide legal education, or assist community members, we would love to hear from you.

Together, we can ensure that every member of our community has access to the information and resources they need to understand and protect their rights.

About NCVAA

The National Conference of Vietnamese American Attorneys (NCVAA) is the national bar association for Vietnamese American lawyers, law students, judges, government officials, legal scholars, and others in the legal community. For 20 years, NCVAA has been dedicated to promoting the professional development of Vietnamese American attorneys, providing mentorship and scholarship opportunities to future lawyers, and strengthening a national network committed to leadership and service.

Contact:
National Conference of Vietnamese American Attorneys
Email: info@ncvaa.org
Website: www.ncvaa.org
Instagram: @ncvaa_org

NCVAA Administrator
Next

2025 President Michael Trung Nguyen’s Inaugural Presidential Address