USCIS Strengthens the Nonimmigrant T Visa Program and Protections for Victims of Human Trafficking
The Department of Homeland Security and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a final rule to strengthen the integrity of the nonimmigrant T visa status (T visa) and ensure that victims of human trafficking can access protections and stabilizing benefits in a timely manner. The nonimmigrant T visa status allows certain victims of severe human trafficking to remain in the United States for an initial period of up to four years.
Human trafficking, also known as “trafficking,” is a crime in which traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to compel individuals to provide labor or services, including commercial sex. Traffickers often target vulnerable individuals, including those lacking legal immigration status. In some cases, individuals smuggled into the United States may become victims of trafficking or exploitation during their travels or upon reaching their destination. DHS is committed to protecting communities from the increased threat of human trafficking through strict law enforcement at the border and increased consequences for those who do not adhere to the many expanded legal pathways.
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The T nonimmigrant status provides protection to victims and strengthens law enforcement agencies’ ability to detect, investigate, and prosecute human trafficking.
This final rule clarifies eligibility for T nonimmigrant status and the requirements for applying, and includes provisions to reduce potential barriers for victims and allow USCIS officers to adjudicate victims’ applications more efficiently. The final rule also enhances program integrity by clarifying reporting and evidence requirements for trafficking victims, which will better assist law enforcement in acting on trafficking reports.
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