T Visas:

Most people who qualify for T visas don't think of themselves as survivors of human trafficking.  Trafficking doesn’t always look like what you see in the movies—it can involve domestic abuse, being smuggled into the U.S. under false promises, or working in harsh, abusive conditions without fair pay or the ability to leave. Even if you weren’t physically restrained, if someone controlled your freedom or forced you to work or engage in sex acts through fear, manipulation, or coercion, you may still qualify.

Who Qualifies for a T Visa?

To be eligible for a T visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons, which includes:

  • Sex trafficking – being induced to engage in a commercial sex act through force, fraud, or coercion (or, if under 18, any commercial sex act).

  • Labor trafficking – being recruited, harbored, or transported for labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion.

• You are physically present in the United States (or at a port of entry) as a result of trafficking.

• You are willing to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the traffickers (unless you are under 18 or unable to cooperate due to trauma or other circumstances).

• You would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if you were removed from the United States.

You do not need to have entered the U.S. lawfully to qualify. Many T visa applicants entered without authorization or were brought in against their will.

How to Apply for a T Visa

Applying for a T visa involves submitting a detailed application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The main form used is:

• Form I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status

In addition, you may include:

• Form I-914, Supplement B – a declaration from law enforcement verifying your cooperation in the investigation or prosecution (this is helpful, but not required)

• A personal statement describing your trafficking experience

• Supporting documents such as police reports, medical records, court documents, or letters from counselors or social workers

• Form I-765 – if you wish to apply for a work permit

What Are the Requirements?

• Proof of trafficking – You must show that you were a victim of either sex or labor trafficking.

• Connection to your presence in the U.S. – You must demonstrate that your presence in the United States is due to trafficking.

• Evidence of hardship – You must show that removal from the U.S. would cause you extreme hardship.

• Willingness to assist law enforcement – Unless exempt, you must cooperate with law enforcement requests related to your case.

What Are the Benefits of a T Visa?

✅ Legal Status in the U.S.

You can legally remain in the U.S. for up to four years. During this time, you can live and work freely.

✅ Work Authorization

You can apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document), allowing you to legally work in the U.S.

✅ Path to a Green Card

After three years—or sooner if your case significantly aids law enforcement—you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card).

✅ Family Members

You may be able to include certain family members in your application for protection, including:

• Spouse and children

• Parents and siblings (if the applicant is under 21)

✅ Access to Public Benefits

T visa recipients may qualify for certain federal and state benefits, such as:

• Food assistance (SNAP)

• Medicaid

• Mental health counseling

• Refugee social services