T Visas:

T Visa - Victims of Trafficking

The T visa is a special nonimmigrant visa available to victims of human trafficking in the United States.

It was established under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (TVPA) to provide protection and support to individuals who have been subjected to labor and sex trafficking, and who are willing to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of trafficking crimes.

1. Eligibility for Victims of Trafficking: The T visa is designed to help foreign nationals who have been victims of severe forms of trafficking in persons, including forced labor, involuntary servitude, and sex trafficking.

2. Cooperation Requirement: One of the central requirements for obtaining a T visa is a commitment to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking cases. This cooperation may involve providing information, testimony, or other assistance to authorities.

3. Protections and Benefits: The T visa provides several important benefits, including temporary immigration status, work authorization, and access to certain federal benefits and services. It allows victims to live and work legally in the United States while their cases are being processed.

4. Derivative Benefits: T visa holders may also request derivative visas for certain family members, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents. These derivative beneficiaries may also receive legal status and work authorization.

5. Path to Permanent Residency: T visa holders have the opportunity to apply for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, also known as a green card, after meeting specific criteria.

6. Confidentiality and Safety: The T visa program takes victims' safety into account, and steps are taken to protect the privacy and security of individuals who come forward. Victims of trafficking are often in vulnerable situations, and the T visa program aims to minimize the risks associated with reporting their traffickers.