USCIS helps protect victims of human trafficking and other crimes by providing immigration relief. Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons, is a form of modern-day slavery in which traffickers lure individuals with false promises of employment and a better life.
Individuals and their families may also fall victim to many other types of crime in the United States. These crimes include: rape, murder, manslaughter, domestic violence, sexual assault, and many others.
Background
In October 2000, Congress created the “T” nonimmigrant status by passing the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA). The legislation strengthens the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute human trafficking, and also offer protection to victims.
Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons, is a form of modern-day slavery in which traffickers lure individuals with false promises of employment and a better life. Traffickers often take advantage of poor, unemployed individuals who lack access to social services. The T Nonimmigrant Status (T visa) is a set aside for those who are or have been victims of human trafficking, protects victims of human trafficking and allows victims to remain in the United States to assist in an investigation or prosecution of human trafficking.
You may be eligible for a T visa if you:
To apply for a T visa, submit:
Note: You are strongly encouraged to submit Form I-914, Supplement B, Declaration of Law Enforcement Officer for Victim of Trafficking in Persons, to show law enforcement agency support. Form I-914, Supplement B serves as primary evidence that you are a victim of trafficking and that you have complied with reasonable requests from law enforcement.
Certain qualifying family members are eligible for a derivative T visa.
If you are under 21 years of age then you may apply on behalf of your spouse, children, parents and unmarried siblings under age 18.
If you are 21 years of age or older then you may apply on behalf of your spouse and children.
To apply for a qualified family member, you must file a Form I-914, Supplement A, Application for Immediate Family Member of T-1 Recipient (PDF, 1.05 MB), at the same time as your application or at a later time. To apply for permanent residency (a green card) for yourself or a qualifying family member, see the Green Card for a T Nonimmigrant.
We will be happy to clarify all intricacies of these cases. Please contact us for more information.