Lack of legal immigration status in the United States may be among the reasons for some victims choosing not to come forward to work with law enforcement. Perpetrators and human traffickers also use victims’ lack of legal status as leverage to exploit and control them. By stabilizing their status in the United States, immigration relief (through the use of T or U visas) can be critical to providing victims of crime a greater sense of security that also makes it easier for them to assist with law enforcement and prosecutorial efforts.
These Visas protect victims of certain crimes who help law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of those crimes. U and T visas provide the following benefits:
(sometimes known as a "green card")
For more information on U Visas, go to U.S. Citizenship and Immigrantion Services- Click HERE.
For more information on T Visas, go to U.S. Citizenship and Immigrantion Services- Click HERE.
Individuals seeking T- or U-Visas should first gather the necessary documentation, including any declarations or certifications from law enforcement.
Applications can be submitted at any time during or after the investigation or prosecution of the crime. The immigration status of applicants will generally not be disclosed except to comply with state or federal law or legal process, or if authorized by the visa applicant. Only the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can issue T- and U-Visas. A signed declaration or certification does not guarantee legal status.
For additional resources, visit the DHS U and T Visa Law Enforcement Resource Guide at https://www.dhs.gov/publication/u-visa-law-enforcement-certification-resource-guide.
How the Immigrant Trust Directive Changes Law Enforcement Practices. For more information please click HERE