Experiencing a crime can leave lasting scars—both physical and emotional. It’s even more difficult when your immigration status adds another layer of fear and uncertainty. You may hesitate to seek help, unsure of your rights or worried about the consequences of coming forward. But you don’t have to face this alone. The U.S. offers protections for victims of certain crimes, allowing them to remain in the country and work toward a more secure future. If you’ve been harmed, relief may be available to help you regain stability and move forward.
What Is a U Visa?
The U visa is a form of immigration relief for victims of certain crimes who have suffered physical or mental harm. It allows eligible individuals to stay in the U.S. and eventually apply for a green card. This visa was created to encourage victims to report crimes and assist law enforcement without fear of deportation.
These are some key features of a U visa:
- Protection from deportation – Allows victims to remain in the U.S. legally for up to four years.
- Work authorization – Recipients can apply for a work permit.
- Path to a Green Card – After three years, U visa holders may apply for lawful permanent residence.
- Family benefits – Certain family members, including spouses, children, and parents (for victims under 21), may qualify for a visa.
To qualify, applicants must cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime and meet other eligibility requirements.
Who Qualifies for a U Visa?
To qualify for a U visa, you must be a victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws. The crime must have caused significant physical or mental harm, and you must be willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution. A certification from law enforcement confirming your cooperation is required. You must also meet admissibility requirements or apply for a waiver if necessary. Certain family members, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents or siblings, may also be eligible for a visa if they meet specific criteria set by immigration authorities.
How to Apply for a U Visa
Applying for a U visa requires several steps and supporting evidence to demonstrate eligibility.
- Complete Form I-918 – Submit the Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status to USCIS.
- Obtain Law Enforcement Certification – Law enforcement must complete Form I-918, Supplement B, confirming your cooperation.
- Write a personal statement and provide supporting evidence – Explain the crime, its impact, and your assistance in the case.
- Apply for a Waiver (if needed) – If inadmissible, submit Form I-192 to request permission to stay in the U.S.
What Is a T Visa?
The T visa provides immigration relief to victims of human trafficking, allowing them to remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for a green card. Human trafficking occurs when individuals are forced, defrauded, or coerced into labor or commercial sex. This visa offers protection and stability while also encouraging victims to assist law enforcement in investigating trafficking crimes.
T visa holders can stay in the U.S. for up to four years, obtain work authorization, and apply for permanent residence after three years. In some cases, family members may also qualify if they would face harm in their home country.
Who Qualifies for a T Visa?
To qualify for a T visa, you must be a victim of human trafficking, which involves force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex. You must be physically present in the U.S. because of the trafficking and show that returning to your home country would cause extreme hardship. In most cases, cooperation with law enforcement is required, unless you are under 18 or face severe trauma. Additionally, you must meet admissibility requirements or apply for a waiver if necessary. Certain family members, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents or siblings, may also qualify for protection.
How to Apply for a T Visa
Applying for a T visa requires submitting forms and supporting documents to prove your eligibility as a trafficking victim.
- Complete Form I-914 – Submit the Application for T Nonimmigrant Status to USCIS.
- Provide a personal statement and include supporting evidence – Describe your trafficking experience and its impact.
- Obtain law enforcement endorsement (if available) – While not required, Form I-914, Supplement B can strengthen your case.
- Apply for family members (if eligible) – Use Form I-914, Supplement A for qualifying relatives.
- File a waiver (if needed) – Submit Form I-192 to overcome inadmissibility issues.
Take the Next Step Toward Safety and Stability
If you are a victim of crime or human trafficking, immigration relief may be available to help you stay in the U.S. Central Justice is here to support you through the process. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward a more secure future.
