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T Nonimmigrant Status (T Visa)

T nonimmigrant status, commonly known as the T visa, is a temporary immigration benefit designed to provide protection to victims of severe trafficking in persons. This status allows eligible individuals to remain in the United States for up to 4 years, with the possibility of extending their stay or adjusting to permanent resident status (Green Card) later. The visa also extends eligibility to certain family members of trafficking victims.

To qualify for T nonimmigrant status, individuals must meet specific criteria, including cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of human trafficking or meeting exemption criteria. T nonimmigrants may also be eligible for employment authorization and access to certain federal and state benefits and services.

What Is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking is a severe crime where traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for labor or commercial sex. Traffickers often target vulnerable individuals, including those without lawful immigration status. The T visa program was created to protect victims and help law enforcement combat human trafficking.

Eligibility Criteria for T Nonimmigrant Status:

You may qualify for T nonimmigrant status if you meet the following requirements:

You are or were a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons, including:

  • Sex trafficking: When someone coerces or deceives an individual into performing commercial sex acts, or when the person involved is under 18.
  • Labor trafficking: When an individual is coerced or deceived into providing labor or services under conditions of involuntary servitude, debt bondage, or slavery.
  • You are physically present in the U.S. or U.S. territories because of trafficking.
  • You have complied with reasonable requests from law enforcement for assistance in the detection, investigation, or prosecution of human trafficking. (If under age 18 or unable to cooperate due to trauma, this requirement may be waived.)
  • You would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.
  • You are admissible to the U.S. (If not, a waiver may be available).

How We Can Help:

If you believe you may qualify for T nonimmigrant status or need assistance with your application, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further details. Our team is here to guide you through the process.
For more information or assistance, please give us a call.