Below are frequently asked questions. If you cannot find your question, call our referral hotline at (615) 414-1030.

1. Am I eligible to apply for citizenship? 

To become a U.S. citizen, you must: 

  • Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing the application for naturalization called the N-400 form

  • Be a permanent resident for at least 5 years

  • Have lived continuously in the United States for at least 5 years

  • Have been present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the immediately preceding 5 years

  • ave lived for at least 3 months in the state where you apply

  • Be a person of good moral character

  • Demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution

  • Be able to read, write, and speak basic English

  • Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government

  • Take an oath of allegiance to the United States 

We encourage eligible immigrants to apply for citizenship to ensure that they are able to sponsor their family members, travel freely, vote, and are protected from deportation! Contact us for more information about eligibility and and make an appointment for one of our application assistance workshops. Please call (615) 833.0384 for more information. 

2. Where can I complete my citizenship application?

TIRRC provides Citizenship Assistance workshops in different cities across Tennessee. With the help of volunteer attorneys, law students, and community members, our Become a Citizen program assists legal permanent residents with the application process. Click here to see the calendar for the next Citizenship Assistance workshop. Call (615) 833.0384 to make an appointment.  

3. How do I apply for a United States passport? 

To apply for a U.S. passport, you must submit your completed application, including evidence of citizenship, copy of photo ID, one 2" by 2" color passport photo, and fees, in person to an passport acceptance facility. Click here to find a location nearest you. Call us at (615) 414.1030 if you need assistance. 

4. How do I check on the status of my immigration case? 

To check the status of your case, call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1.800.375.5283 or visit the USCIS website.

5. How can I schedule an appointment with my Consulate?

Click here to find out when your consulate is coming to town. 

6. Where can I take English classes? 

TIRRC offers free ESL classes for our members. For more information about time, location, and registration, text our hotline at (615) 414.1030. Click here for more information about our program. 

 
 

Post-Election Information & Resources

For a collection of all of our information & resources since the November 2016 election, click here.

Legal Screenings

We encourage all undocumented immigrants to be screened for possible forms of immigration relief. We can refer you to an immigration attorney or accredited organization for a consultation. You can also use this free, online pre-screening tool from IMMI to see if you might qualify for a more permanent form of relief. 

**If your screening results suggest you may be eligible for immigration relief, call us for a referral.**

Family Defense 

We host family defense workshops to help immigrants prepare critical documents and processes in the event that someone in their family is deported. To find out when the next workshop is, or for more information, contact us at 615-282-5544.

Click here (español) to download TIRRC's Family Preparedness guides. 

Deportation Defense and Support

If you know someone who is in deportation proceedings or whose loved one has been deported, we can provide legal and service referrals and support. Please contact us at 615-282-5544.