T-Visa Lawyer

Raleigh Immigration Attorneys Helping Victims of Human Trafficking Obtain T-Visas

Human trafficking, a global epidemic, preys upon the vulnerable, exploiting their hopes and dreams for a better life. For countless individuals caught in its merciless grip, the journey toward liberation is fraught with fear, pain, and desperation. It can often be difficult for victims of human trafficking to reach out for help.

At the Raleigh immigration law firm Bashyam Global LLP, we are proud to offer compassionate legal assistance for victims of human trafficking who wish to apply for a T-Visa. Contact our dedicated team today for a consultation to learn more about your immigration options as an individual who has suffered from the heinous crime of human trafficking.

a woman behind an opaque glass, appearing trapped and wanting to escape.

What is a T Visa?

A T-Visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa designed for victims of severe forms of human trafficking, such as sex trafficking or forced labor, and provides them with legal immigration status in the United States.

The T visa, established in October 2000 through the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA), represents a crucial tool in the fight against human trafficking. It not only empowers law enforcement agencies with the means to investigate trafficking crimes but also prioritizes the protection and well-being of the victims throughout the process.

A successful T visa application will give you authorization to remain in the U.S. for up to four years, with an option to apply for permanent residency and eventually become a citizen.

What is Human Trafficking Legally Defined As?

USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) defines human trafficking (ie labor trafficking or sex trafficking) as forcing or tricking someone into doing labor or sex work without their permission. It can also involve fraud and coercion, or other situations where a victim cannot freely give informed consent.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining the T visa?

To be eligible for a T visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have been a victim of human trafficking and have suffered physical or mental abuse.
  • You must be in the United States as a result of being trafficked.
  • You must respond to and assist law enforcement officials in any requests regarding the prosecution, if applicable.
  • You must prove that you would suffer hardship if you were removed from the United States.

What is Hardship Defined As?

Hardship, as it pertains to a T-Visa application, is defined as a significant degree of physical and/or psychological suffering that a person would experience if they were removed from the United States. This suffering must be so severe that it would be unjust or inhumane to remove them from the country.

In order to demonstrate that you would suffer hardship upon removal from the United States, it is important to provide evidence of the human trafficking incident and the effect it has had on your life. This can include medical records or other forms of documentation.

Do You Need a T Visa Attorney?

If you are a victim of human trafficking and need assistance with applying for T-Visa status, our experienced immigration attorneys can help. Our team has extensive knowledge of the law and experience in helping individuals obtain this type of visa. We will assess your situation to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for a T Visa, and provide expert guidance throughout the process.

an American flag blowing in the breeze seen through barbed wire

What Kind of Support Can You Expect From a T Visa Lawyer?

A T visa attorney can provide guidance and support through the application process. An experienced lawyer will know exactly what documents you need to submit, help you compile evidence for your case, write compelling letters of recommendation in your favor, and represent you in any hearings or appeals related to your case.

With an experienced attorney on your side, you can have peace of mind that your T visa application will be successful.

How Can You Obtain a T Visa?

The T-Visa application is a sensitive process because victims often experience severe physical, sexual, or mental abuse. It is essential to provide strong evidence to support claims of abuse, and the application process is complex. After establishing a claim, attorneys begin to prepare the application for submission to the USCIS.

To apply for a T-Visa, you must file Form I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status carefully.

Additionally, you need to include a personal statement describing how you became a victim of trafficking and the subsequent experiences. It’s crucial to provide evidence demonstrating that you have complied with requests from law enforcement in the prosecution of those responsible. Furthermore, you need to provide supporting documents, such as medical records, police reports, and sworn witness affidavits, to establish all other eligibility criteria.

What are the Benefits of a T Visa?

T visa holders have the following benefits:

  • Legal status in the US for the duration of the T Visa
  • T visas are available to victims and their family members such as spouses, children, or parents if the victim is a minor.
  • Employment authorization to work in the United States
  • Authorization to travel within and outside of US borders, with permission from USCIS.
  • Eligibility to apply for permanent residency after three years if certain conditions are met.
  • Access to health care and public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps.
  • Support from Victim Assistance organizations.
  • Your T Visa allows beneficiaries to receive certain federal benefits.

What if You Are Not Admissible to the US?

If you are not admissible to the US due to certain inadmissibility grounds, such as criminal convictions or fraud, under certain instances, your T Visa lawyer can help you obtain a waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-192). This could allow you to remain in the United States legally despite any prior misconduct or criminal record.

Is Domestic Abuse Considered Human Trafficking?

Under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), domestic violence can be considered a form of trafficking if it involves force, fraud, or coercion to compel the victim into labor or services against their will. In such cases, victims may be eligible for a T-Visa. However, T-Visa applications require strong evidence of abuse. It is important to hire an experienced immigration attorney who can help you through this process. If you do not qualify for a T-Visa, refer to our page on VAWA visas, Humanitarian Visas, or contact our team for more information.

Supporting Human Trafficking Survivors

At Bashyam Global LLP, we are dedicated to helping victims of human trafficking build brighter futures for themselves by obtaining the legal protection they deserve. We understand that this is an incredibly sensitive process, and we will work diligently to ensure your rights are respected every step of the way.

Contact our legal team today online or call us at 919-833-0840 to learn more about T-Visas, and how we can help you! We are here to assist in any way possible.

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