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The T Visa is an immigration status designed to protect victims of human trafficking. Established under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000, it allows victims to remain in the United States for up to four years, offering a range of benefits, including safety and legal refuge for those who have suffered exploitation.
One of the main T visa benefits is that it provides protection and assistance not only to the holder but also to eligible family members. If you would like to speak with an expert T Visa attorney, do not hesitate to contact us.
It is essential to gather and submit a series of documents, this includes Form I-914, the primary application document, along with evidence of victimization, such as affidavits, medical reports, and police documents. See how Form I-914 looks.
The application process for the T Visa involves a thorough review by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This includes background checks, fingerprinting, and interviews to verify the applicant's claims. To discover more about T visa requirements, click here
The process can be lengthy, often taking several months or even years to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of evidence. Once approved, the T Visa provides the applicant with immediate protection and access to various benefits.
Below is more information about who can access derivative visas and the application process, which is one of the significant T visa benefits.
Family members of T Visa holders can also apply for derivative visas. Spouses, children under 21, and, in some cases, parents and unmarried siblings of the principal applicant may be eligible. These derivative visas provide the same protections and T visa benefits as the principal T Visa.
In the application process for derivative visas, family members must submit Form I-914A. Also, the applicant must submit evidence of their relationship to the principal applicant and proof of their own eligibility. See how Form I-914A looks.
Careful documentation is required, and like the principal T Visa, the process may involve interviews and background checks. Finally, approval of these derivative visas allows family members to live and work in the U.S., providing them with legal status.
Below are the detailed T visa benefits, ranging from employment authorization to access to healthcare. Looking for legal help? Serving Immigrants is here to assist you.
One of the key T visa benefits is the protection it offers to victims of human trafficking, allowing them to remain in the U.S. for up to four years. This protection is vital because returning to their origin countries might expose them to further exploitation or retaliation.
Among the most significant T visa benefits is the pathway to permanent residency. After maintaining continuous presence in the U.S. for three years, T Visa holders are eligible to apply for a Green Card.
T Visa holders are automatically granted employment authorization, allowing them to work legally in the United States. Additionally, having a legal job allows T Visa holders to access employment-related benefits, such as health insurance.
T visa benefits include access to healthcare services through Medicaid, financial assistance programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Another important T visa benefit is family reunification, allowing derivative family members to live and work legally in the U.S.
T Visa holders and their children have access to public education and may qualify for financial aid for higher education. Additionally, T Visa holders can participate in vocational training programs that provide specific skills in high-demand fields.
T Visa holders are protected from discrimination and have the right to access legal resources if their rights are violated. These legal protections are a crucial aspect of the T visa benefits, ensuring that victims of trafficking can live without fear.
The following explains in which cases a T Visa extension is requested and in which cases a renewal is needed. This often occurs when the person has not completed the process to obtain permanent residency in order to improve the T visa benefits.
The T Visa is initially granted for a period of four years. In certain cases, extensions may be available, such as ongoing investigations or if the T Visa holder has not yet obtained permanent residency. To extend T Visa status, beneficiaries must file Form I-539. See how Form I-539 looks.
Renewing or extending T Visa status requires careful planning and documentation. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process and involves proving that the beneficiary continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
This may include providing evidence of ongoing cooperation with law enforcement and demonstrating that the conditions justifying the extension are still present. Timely renewal is essential to ensure that T Visa holders can continue to live and work legally.
T Visa holders should be cautious about international travel. They are automatically granted employment authorization, allowing them to work legally in the United States during their visa period.
Advance Parole is essential for T Visa holders who need to travel but wish to maintain their eligibility for permanent residency, they may face significant challenges when attempting to return to the U.S.
Advance Parole is a special travel document that allows T Visa holders to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. Consequently, to apply for Advance Parole, beneficiaries must submit Form I-131 and provide a valid reason for travel, such as urgent family matters or medical emergencies. See how Form I-131 looks.
Explore our frequently asked questions about the T Visa benefits:
T Visa holders can apply for a Green Card after three years of continuous presence in the U.S. and meeting additional eligibility criteria. To read more about the transition from t visa to green card click here.
T Visa holders can apply for an extension or renewal of their visa if they have not yet obtained permanent residency.
Yes, it is highly important to have an attorney during the T Visa application process. In serving immigrants we have expert attorneys on T visa.
Yes, T Visa holders are automatically granted employment authorization, allowing them to work legally in the United States during their visa period.
