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Our team of T Visa immigration lawyers in Glendale can provide you with the answers you need. If you or a loved one are seeking immigration assistance for a T Visa, it’s important to understand the process and benefits of this visa type.
The T Visa is designed to protect victims of human trafficking, allowing them to stay in the U.S. and access essential services.
Glendale immigration lawyers at New Frontier, fluent in both Spanish and English, can provide the support and guidance needed throughout this process.
Whether you’re dealing with the stress of immigration forms, gathering necessary documents, or preparing for your visa interview, having experienced legal assistance can make a significant difference.
What is a T Visa?
A T Visa is a special type of U.S. visa designed to protect victims of human trafficking. It allows individuals who have been trafficked into the U.S. to stay in the country and provides them with a pathway to lawful status. A Glendale naturalization immigration lawyer can explain how a t visa can help those who have suffered exploitation and abuse.
Eligibility Criteria for T Visa Applicants
To qualify for the T Nonimmigrant Status for Victims of Human Trafficking (T Visa), applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Victim of Severe Trafficking. The applicant must demonstrate that they were a victim of severe human trafficking, either for labor or sexual exploitation.
- Presence in the U.S. The applicant must be physically present in the U.S. due to trafficking and not by choice.
- Assistance to Law Enforcement. Generally, the applicant must be willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of human trafficking cases. However, there are exceptions for those unable to cooperate due to physical or psychological trauma.
- Risk of Extreme Hardship. The applicant must show that returning to their home country would result in extreme hardship, such as facing retaliation or lack of necessary medical care.
Benefits of Obtaining a T Visa
The T Visa offers several significant benefits to victims of human trafficking:
- Legal Status. T Visa holders can remain in the U.S. for up to four years, and they can apply for an Adjustment of Status (Green Card) after three years.
- Employment Authorization. T Visa recipients are eligible to work legally in the U.S. and can obtain an employment authorization card.
- Family Reunification. Certain family members, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents, may also be eligible for a T Visa as derivative applicants.
- Access to Services. T Visa holders may be eligible for various public benefits and social services, including healthcare, housing, and counseling.
- Protection from Removal. Individuals with a T Visa are protected from deportation during their stay in the U.S.
For those affected by human trafficking, the T Visa represents a vital opportunity to rebuild their lives in the U.S. and seek the help and support they need.
For a free case review with a t visa immigration lawyer serving Glendale, call
Overview of the Application Process for a T Visa
Applying for a T Visa is a significant step for victims of human trafficking seeking asylum and legal status in the U.S. The process involves several key stages, each designed to ensure that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria and receives the support they need.
- The application begins with the completion of Form I–914, the official application form for T Nonimmigrant Status. This form requires detailed information about the applicant’s trafficking experience and personal background.
- Alongside Form I-914, applicants must submit various supporting documents to demonstrate their eligibility. These documents might include evidence of trafficking, cooperation with law enforcement, and proof of extreme hardship if returned to their home country.
- Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). During this review, USCIS may request additional documentation, such as financial documents or a marriage certificate, if the applicant is applying for family members as derivative beneficiaries.
- Processing times can vary, and applicants from outside the U.S. may need to provide updated documents or attend an immigrant visa interview. If the T Visa application is approved, the applicant will receive an employment authorization card and be allowed to stay in the U.S. for up to four years.
It is important to note that each case is unique, and the application process can be complex. Consular processing may be required if the applicant is outside the U.S., and additional documents may be needed depending on the individual’s circumstances. A Glendale T Visa immigration lawyer can help ensure that all necessary steps are followed and that the application is submitted correctly, reducing the chances of delays or denials.
Do I Need a Glendale Immigration Lawyer for a T Visa?
While it is possible to apply for a T Visa without legal representation, having an experienced Glendale immigration lawyer can be invaluable. A lawyer can help you prepare your application, ensuring that all required documents and evidence are properly submitted.
It is also important to remember that becoming a citizen comes with new challenges. Here’s what happens after your T Visa gets approved. A Glendale T Visa immigration lawyer can also provide guidance on how to address those challenges and even help with family-related immigration issues, such as including eligible family members in your application.
Our T Visa Immigration Lawyers
Ask a T Visa Immigration Lawyer About Your Application at No Cost
If you are a victim of trafficking and are considering applying for a T Visa, it’s essential to understand your options and the steps involved in the application process. Our T Visa immigration lawyers in Glendale offer free consultations, providing an opportunity to discuss your case without any financial commitment.
Speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer can help you understand the process, gather the necessary evidence, and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Taking this step can provide you and your family with the protection and support you need to rebuild your lives.