Victims of human trafficking are in need of special protection under federal law. This is because victims of human trafficking often experience physical, psychological, and medical trauma. The federal government understands this and has designed different ways to help these victims. One way is through the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act. This act provides for T nonimmigrant status, otherwise known as a T visa. This immigration law provides protection for many victims of human trafficking, but there are some that still need more protection than what they can get under current law. Here, you will learn about what human trafficking is and how you can get help if it happens to you or someone you know.
What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery. It involves the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, typically for sex or labor. Victims are often smuggled into another country with false promises of employment opportunities. They are then forced to work in fields that they may not have had any exposure to before, such as prostitution or farming. The Green Card is the best option for a human trafficking victim or crime victim to obtain lawful permanent resident status.
How to get help
If you're a victim of trafficking and need help, contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center. It's available 24/7 and can be reached at 1 (888) 373-7888. You can also send a SMS message to 233733, and text "HELP" or "INFO".
What is the legal process to obtain a green card?
The legal process of obtaining a green card, otherwise known as permanent residency, as a human trafficking victim can be a confusing and overwhelming experience.
The first step to becoming a legal resident is to submit a T visa application. The T visa offers victims of human trafficking temporary immigration status and employment authorization for up to four years. Once you have received your T-visa, the next step is to file an application for a green card, or permanent residency. The victim of human trafficking will need to prove that he or she is a victim of trafficking and not an immigrant who came to the U.S. voluntarily. The victim also needs to show that he or she was helpful in the prosecution of the traffickers and has been helpful in the investigation and prevention of human trafficking. You should also get in touch with the social security administration because you will need to apply for a social security number. You can find out more information about the process by visiting the USCIS website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the T visa has been obtainable since 2000. Filing for the T visa requires the applicant to produce extensive documentation proving that they were trafficked. The T visa is a powerful tool for victims of human trafficking, and offers protection from traffickers who caused so much harm.
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This blog does not intend to answer all questions as each individual case is unique. We recommend you visit the USCIS website for all up to date information regarding permanent residence in the United States. If you need legal assistance, call today to schedule a consultation with immigration lawyer Jesus Martinez at (559) 777-6587.