Qualifying for a T Visa After Being Trafficked Outside the U.S.

By Elliot Rahimi

Human trafficking is a global issue, and many victims end up in the United States due to their traffickers’ exploitation. If you were trafficked outside the U.S. but later arrived here as a result of that trafficking, you may still qualify for a T visa. The T visa is specifically designed to protect individuals who have been victims of severe trafficking and have been brought to or are currently in the U.S. due to that trafficking.

Eligibility for a T Visa Based on Trafficking Outside the U.S.

Even if the trafficking occurred in another country, you can qualify for a T visa as long as you can demonstrate that the trafficking led to your presence in the United States. You must also meet the other basic requirements of the T visa, including showing that you have suffered severe trafficking, are assisting or willing to assist in law enforcement investigations (with certain exceptions), and would face extreme hardship if removed from the U.S. The key is proving the link between the trafficking and your arrival in the U.S.

Cooperation with Law Enforcement

A critical aspect of qualifying for a T visa is your willingness to cooperate with law enforcement in investigations or prosecutions related to your trafficking case. However, if cooperating would put you or your family in danger, you may be exempt from this requirement. The government understands that safety is paramount, and this aspect of the application process is flexible for victims who are still at risk.

Protection and Relief for Victims of International Trafficking

The T visa not only offers protection from deportation but also provides a pathway to permanent residency and the possibility of bringing immediate family members to the U.S. Once granted a T visa, you can receive work authorization and remain in the U.S. legally. After three years, you may apply for a green card and, eventually, U.S. citizenship. Call Rahimi Law Firm P.C. today to learn more. 

If you or someone you know was trafficked outside of the U.S. and ended up here as a result, contact Rahimi Law Firm P.C. today for a free consultation. Our experienced team can guide you through the T visa application process.

About the Author

Elliot A. Rahimi, Esq. is the founder and managing attorney of the Rahimi Law Firm, known for his extensive experience in handling a wide range of immigration and litigation cases. He regularly represents clients before Immigration Courts and USCIS, vigorously working to secure immigration relief and legal status. With a strong track record, Mr. Rahimi excels in winning appeals and motions before the Board of Immigration Appeals and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit. His expertise also covers transactional immigration matters, including various visa categories and family-based petitions. Admitted to practice in New York, he is an active member of the New York Bar Association, American Bar Association, and American Immigration Lawyers Association. Mr. Rahimi graduated from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, where he was involved in the Moot Court Honor Society and competed internationally. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and spending quality time with his family.