Labor trafficking is an ongoing problem throughout the United States, and the victims of this practice deserve the chance to live without fear of continuing abuse. To address these issues, the U.S. government has adopted a type of visa that applies specifically to surviving victims of human trafficking.
T nonimmigrant status—more commonly referred to as a T-visa—offers victims of labor trafficking an opportunity to remain in the United States. The government has designed this program to protect them from continued exploitation. Talk to our dedicated visa attorneys about the T-visa for labor trafficking victims in Phoenix today.
Victims of labor trafficking are forced to work against their will, often without any compensation at all. The process can include the use of violence, threats, coercion, or fraud to push someone to work. These cases can also involve debt bondage, where victims work for free while attempting to pay off a debt that never shrinks.
Labor trafficking is more than just forcing someone to perform unpaid labor. It can also involve the use of involuntary child labor, particularly in situations where a juvenile is too young to perform the tasks or work the hours in question.
There are multiple industries where labor trafficking is an issue, being especially common among domestic servants, in farm labor, and in factory settings. Victims may face threats of violence, arrest, or deportation. If you are a labor trafficking victim in Phoenix, you may be entitled to a T-visa. Our attorneys could help you with every phase of the application process.
Labor trafficking victims in Phoenix must comply with strict requirements when they seek a T-visa through the federal government. First and foremost, this program is limited to victims of human trafficking. This includes not only labor trafficking but also sex trafficking.
It is not enough to have been victimized. To qualify for a visa, you must cooperate with law enforcement to help them prosecute the people who trafficked you. While the government will generally expect you to assist in this prosecution, there are some exceptions. Juvenile victims do not have to assist law enforcement, and waivers are available for victims who are physically or emotionally unable to contribute.
You must also be physically present in the U.S. to be eligible for a T-visa, including living in the country or being present at a port of entry. The labor trafficking in question must have occurred within the U.S.
Finally, labor trafficking victims are only eligible for a T-visa if they have reason to fear retaliation or harm. In general, this means you face an increased risk of harm if you are forced to leave the U.S. or return to your country of origin.
While there are different forms and documents you will likely have to provide, the most important step in applying for a T-visa is filing Form I-914. Also known as the Application for T Nonimmigrant Status, this document initiates the process and requires the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to consider your request. You may also need to provide supporting documentation such as police reports, medical records, or affidavits. Our Phoenix lawyers could help with your T-visa application by assisting you in filing this form and proving that you have been a victim of labor trafficking.
If you are a victim of labor trafficking, you should never be forced to risk your health and safety by being removed from the U.S. Our immigration lawyers could help you review your options and assist labor trafficking victims in Phoenix with obtaining a T-visa. Contact us today to discuss your legal options during a consultation.
