Charlotte T-Visa Lawyer | Victims of Human Trafficking

Immigrating to a new country can be a difficult process, not only in securing the proper visa, but also in determining whether it is the right step for your life. Sadly, some individuals come to the United States against their will and become victims of serious crimes, including human trafficking. In response, the U.S. government passed the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, which created special immigration options like the U-visa and T-visa. The T-visa is specifically designed to help victims of human trafficking.

If you were brought into the U.S. through force, fraud, or coercion, and are willing to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting your traffickers, you may qualify for a T-visa. This visa provides protection, the ability to stay in the country, and access to important support services. In some cases, it may even lead to lawful permanent residence, also known as a Green Card. A Charlotte T-visa lawyer at Sussman Law Firm could help you understand your rights, guide you through the application process, and support your efforts to build a safer and more stable future.

Eligibility and Applying for a T-Visa

The T-visa, or T nonimmigrant status, allows victims of human trafficking to temporarily remain in the United States. Human trafficking is a broad term meaning the use of force or fraud to transport, harbor, or solicit another person. It comprises labor trafficking, which is forcing victims into involuntary servitude, and sex trafficking, whereby the offenders exploit the victims sexually. A victim of either labor or sex trafficking could be eligible for a T-visa if they meet the following requirements:

They are physically present in the United States, a territory like American Samoa or the Mariana Islands, or at a port of entry as a result of human trafficking
Unless they are under 18 years old or unable to cooperate due to extreme trauma, they must be willing to help any law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute the traffickers
They must show that they would suffer severe hardship if they were to leave the United States
They must be otherwise admissible to the United States; however, they may apply for a waiver for some types of inadmissibility and request entry as a nonimmigrant

Applying for a T-visa requires filling out forms and providing evidence of all eligibility requirements. This could be a difficult process, and gathering the necessary documentation may feel overwhelming. However, an attorney experienced with helping victims in Charlotte obtain a T nonimmigrant status could help. A lawyer could guide victims through every step, form, and piece of evidence needed for a successful application.

Why a T-Visa Is Worth the Effort

A T-visa brings advantages that could make the application worthwhile. The T nonimmigrant status is usually granted for four years, during which time victims may obtain employment authorization so they can work. T-visa holders could apply to extend this period, although they may be eligible for a Green Card after three years of continuous physical presence in the country.

Additionally, family members could also apply for a T-visa if they are in danger of retaliation due to the victim’s escape from captivity or their cooperation with law enforcement. Generally, this includes the victim’s parents and unmarried siblings under 18 years old. A victim’s spouse and unmarried children may also be eligible, depending on the circumstances.

While the application may seem daunting, a compassionate attorney could help a victim of trafficking obtain a T nonimmigrant status, providing them with lawful permanent residency in Charlotte and allowing them to reclaim their life.

Call a Charlotte Immigration Attorney To Help With Your T Nonimmigrant Status

If you have been brought into the United States against your will, a Charlotte T-visa lawyer could help in your pursuit of justice. Our dedicated team at Sussman Law Firm is ready to assist you. If you believe that you qualify for a T-visa, contact us for advice and tell us your story.