The U.S. government, through the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA), has made provisions for foreign nationals who are victims of sex trafficking to stay in the country for a short period of time. This immigration benefit is called a T-Visa or a T nonimmigrant status. If you or a loved one belongs to this category of undocumented immigrants, you may qualify to receive this visa.
With the help of an experienced visa lawyer from New Frontier Immigration Law, you can obtain legal status in the United States for up to four years. We will help you prepare the documentation, fulfill the requirements, and provide legal guidance that can help you become a beneficiary. We have helped other sex trafficking victims in the Glendale, AZ area to secure this T visa, so contact us to discuss your case today.
Noncitizens who are trafficked for sexual purposes, and are subject to threats and the use of force by their traffickers, may qualify to receive the T nonimmigrant status. This applies to both adults and minors.
The purpose of this immigration visa is to provide some stability for the victim and allow them to comfortably work with law enforcement agents to bring their traffickers to justice. Additionally, under certain conditions, the T-Visa provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years of residence in the country.
Victims’ immediate family members and loved ones, such as their spouse, minor children, parents, and younger siblings, may also be beneficiaries, as it allows the victim to file for a derivative T-visa that will cover their family members. Petitioners can also receive work authorization and government benefits, such as food stamps and welfare.
To qualify for the T nonimmigrant status as a sex trafficking victim, applicants in Glendale must meet the following eligibility requirements:
An attorney from New Frontier Immigration Law can explain these requirements in detail and help victims determine if they qualify to receive the visa.
The application process and criteria for a T-visa involve completing and submitting several documents and forms to the USCIS. These include the Application for T Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-914), which must contain detailed information about the victim’s sexual trafficking ordeal. This may be backed up with evidence of trafficking, including photos, videos, messages, documents, account statements, or other forms of proof demonstrating their interactions or dealings with the trafficker(s). However, additional evidence is not required.
Applicants may also complete the Law Enforcement Declaration (Form I-914 Supplement B), which certifies that they are cooperating with law enforcement agents in their investigations. Finally, they must attach evidence of admissibility in the U.S. and proof that they meet the eligibility requirements for the visa.
Applying for a T-Visa can often be a highly complex, rigorous, and highly time-consuming process. You will need an experienced attorney in Glendale to work with you on your T visa if you are a victim of sex trafficking. At New Frontier Immigration Law, we understand the unique situation you are in and want to help you as best we can. Please contact us now to discuss what comes next.
