Protecting Survivors of Human Trafficking with Care, Experience & Legal Strength
At Khashmati Law, P.C., we stand with survivors of human trafficking. Whether you’ve experienced labor trafficking, sex trafficking, or another form of exploitation, you may be eligible for a T visa—a humanitarian visa that offers protection, work authorization, and a path to permanent residency in the United States. Our immigration attorneys are here to help you reclaim your safety, secure your legal status, and begin building a new life free from fear.
What Is a T Visa?
The T visa was created under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 to support victims of severe human trafficking. It is available to individuals who:
- Were trafficked for a commercial sex act induced by force, fraud, coercion—or who were under 18 years of age at the time of the act
- Were trafficked for labor or services through force, fraud, or coercion, resulting in involuntary servitude, debt bondage, or slavery
To qualify, you must also:
- Be physically present in the United States as a result of trafficking
- Show that you would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if removed from the U.S.
- Cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking (this requirement is waived for minors under 18 or those unable to cooperate due to trauma)
- Be admissible to the U.S. or qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility
What Protections and Benefits Does a T Visa Offer?
T visa holders are granted nonimmigrant status for up to four years, with the possibility of extension. While in T status, you may:
- Apply for a work permit (EAD) to live and work legally in the U.S.
- Apply for a green card (lawful permanent residency) after three years, or once the trafficking investigation or prosecution is complete
- Receive public benefits such as housing, food assistance, health care, education, and more—without fear of being labeled a public charge
Derivative T Visas for Family Members
T visa holders may also be able to bring certain family members to the U.S. through derivative T visas, including:
- If you’re under 21: your spouse, children, parents, and unmarried minor siblings
- If you’re 21 or older: your spouse and children
- If your family members are at risk of retaliation because of your escape or cooperation, they may also qualify—regardless of your age
All qualifying family members can receive work authorization and access the same public benefits and services.
What If You’re Not Eligible for a T Visa?
If you do not meet the criteria for a T visa, you may still have options. One alternative is Continued Presence (CP)—a form of temporary protection for victims who may serve as witnesses in trafficking cases. CP allows you to live and work legally in the U.S. without requiring active cooperation in an investigation. It is granted in one-year increments and can be renewed.
You may also qualify for a U visa, available to victims of other serious crimes (including trafficking), provided you meet specific cooperation and hardship criteria. Like the T visa, the U visa offers work authorization and a pathway to permanent residency after three years.
Let Khashmati Law Help You Reclaim Your Life
We understand the trauma and fear that come with surviving human trafficking—and we know the strength it takes to come forward. At Khashmati Law, P.C., we guide you with care and discretion through the T visa process, help you apply for waivers if needed, and support your journey toward stability and safety.
Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your options, prepare your application, and fight for your right to stay protected in the United States.
You are not alone—and you do not have to face this process without help.