National Origin, Immigration, & Refugee Status

State and federal fair housing laws prohibit discrimination based on national origin, religion, and ancestry (Indiana). Fair housing laws protect you regardless of your immigration or refugee status. Some landlords, owners, real estate agents, etc., might ask if you are in the country legally, ask to see your green card or visa, or ask for your social security number. If you think that you are being asked these questions because of where you are from, where you may be perceived to be from, or due to your religion, contact the FHCCI.

The FHCCI’s work in challenging housing discrimination due to national origin intersects with several areas. See our pages on Appraisals, Criminal History, Insurance, Lending, Rent to Own/Land Contracts, Sales, and Tenant Screening for additional information.

Types of housing discrimination due to national origin may include:

  • Proof of citizenship or legal status solely due to someone’s national origin.
  • Requiring that someone “must speak English” in order to be rented to.
  • Providing different loan products due to national origin or targeting people with predatory products solely due to their national origin.
  • An advertisement which states, “No Mexicans” or a sign in front of a vacant home that says “No Burmese.”
  • Charging different deposits or application requirements solely due to someone’s national origin.
  • A public housing authority who refuses to provide a translator or provide documents in alternative languages upon request.

FHCCI Resources:

Government Guidance & Resources:

Other Resources:

Reports of Interest:

In 2016, the FHCCI became aware of a discriminatory sign posted in front of a vacant home that was targeting the Burmese/Chin community.