Human trafficking is a problem in our country and across the world. Millions of people are bullied or coerced into trafficking situations every day. These victims have rights. Immigration laws have been written to specifically address human trafficking and how to keep those who have been trafficked safe in the U.S. If this has happened to you, you need a capable Minneapolis T visa lawyer for human trafficking victims.
Hong Immigration Law leads with compassion and honesty. We offer immigration advice, including how to get a T visa and other documentation, to secure your status in the U.S. We support you from beginning to end and answer all your questions. Our approach is comprehensive to fit your needs. Mr. Hong also speaks Korean. Our former clients recommend us, saying we are attentive and professional. Let our lawyers help you with your immigration issues.
Human Trafficking is when someone is forced or compelled to provide services or labor without payment. This can include commercial sex acts, debt bondage, or slavery. Traffickers profit from controlling and exploiting others.
In 2000, the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act was passed. It defines human trafficking, prevention, and how to protect victims. The initiatives in the act include victims within the United States and internationally.
According to Homeland Security, 27.6 million people are trafficked across the globe. Most of them are in forced labor at 77%, with the other 23% in sex trafficking. The majority of victims are men and boys at 57%.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline was contacted a total of 32,309 times in 2024. There were 8,024 contacts from victims and survivors of human trafficking. Most of the reports were for sex trafficking. If any of those victims were undocumented immigrants, they could be eligible for a T visa.
A T visa grants nonimmigrant status to those involved in human trafficking. These victims have been taken from their home country against their will to the United States, making them undocumented immigrants.
If you are granted a T visa, it’s valid for four years, allowing you to stay in the U.S. for that time without penalty. There is the possibility of a T visa being available for your family members as well. Once you’ve received your T visa, you can get legal employment and apply for a green card.
The Federal Regulations 8 CFR 214.202 address the T visa laws and the criteria you must meet to apply for one.
Immigration laws can be complicated. You should consult a Minneapolis T visa attorney for human trafficking victims to discuss your unique situation. You need an advocate on your side to guide you through the process to improve the outcome of your immigration case.
The first step in getting your T visa is escaping your trafficker and finding a safe place to stay. After that, here’s the process:
A: As of April 2024, there are no government fees for you or any of your family to apply for a T visa. Attorney fees depend on your situation and how much time it takes to gather evidence of human trafficking, interviews with law enforcement, and prepare the paperwork. Having a knowledgeable attorney can be worth it in the long run.
A: Yes, a T visa does protect you from deportation for four years, which is how long they are valid. T visas are intended to be temporary. You can start planning for your green card as soon as you obtain your T visa. Discuss what you’d like for the future with your attorney.
A: Yes, you can apply for a green card after having your T visa for three years. You must stay in the United States for that amount of time. To apply for your green card, you have to show that you have continued to assist law enforcement in their trafficking case and that you haven’t been arrested since receiving your T visa.
A: How long it takes to receive your T visa in Minnesota can vary from one case to the next. The timeframe depends on the number of applications. There can also be a backlog at the USCIS for background checks. Inadequate evidence can make the approval process longer as well. While you wait, stay in touch with your attorney and check your status on the USCIS website.
After what you’ve been through, you need someone to assist you with the next steps of immigration. At Hong Immigration Law, we have personal experience with navigating the system. Our team can support you through this emotional time while working with you to get a T visa, which may lead to citizenship one day. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options under the immigration laws.
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