The T Visa is a type of humanitarian immigration relief allowing survivors of severe forms of human trafficking and their immediate family members to remain and work temporarily in the United States. The T Visa, which is valid for four years, also creates a path to Lawful Permanent Residency, i.e., a Green Card.

Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons or modern-day slavery, is a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person to provide labor or services, or to engage in commercial sex acts. Trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion. The coercion can be subtle or overt, physical or psychological.  The exploitation of a minor for commercial sex is human trafficking, regardless of whether any form of force, fraud, or coercion was used.

To qualify for a T visa, the trafficking victim, if eighteen years of age or older, must have complied with any reasonable request for assistance from law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the trafficking. There is an exception, to this requirement, for survivors who have experienced physical or psychological trauma that prevents them from complying with a reasonable request from law enforcement. A full psychological exam is strongly recommended if applying for this exception.

Derivative Beneficiaries, i.e.; Family Members

T nonimmigrant status is also available to certain qualifying family members of trafficking victims. T nonimmigrants are eligible for employment authorization and certain federal and state benefits and services. 

Adjusting Status / Obtaining a Green Card

T nonimmigrants who qualify may also be able to adjust their status and become lawful permanent residents (obtain a Green Card). Further, prior criminal or immigration violations that may bar other forms of immigration relief may be waived in connection with the T visa if they were caused by or incident to the trafficking or if it is in the national interest to do so. Qualifying family members may also be able to adjust their status and obtain Green Cards.

If you have been a victim of human trafficking, and are undocumented, reach out to us for help in obtaining a T Visa.