Protection for survivors of crime and human trafficking
US immigration law offers protection to people who have been harmed by serious crimes or human trafficking in the United States. The U visa and the T visa allow survivors to remain in the US, work legally and, after several years, apply for a green card. Eligible family members may be included.
You may qualify even if you are currently undocumented or entered the US without permission.
Compare U and T visas
| U Visa | T Visa | |
|---|---|---|
| For | Victims of qualifying crimes in the US | Survivors of sex or labor trafficking |
| Law enforcement | Certification from an agency is required | Cooperation with reasonable requests, with exceptions |
| Annual limit | 10,000 principal visas | 5,000 principal visas |
| Green card | After 3 years in U status | After 3 years in T status, or sooner in some cases |
U Visa
For victims of crimes such as domestic violence, sexual assault, felonious assault, kidnapping, stalking, extortion or witness tampering who suffered substantial harm and have helped law enforcement. Learn about U visas →
T Visa
For people who were brought to or kept in the US through force, fraud or coercion for labor or commercial sex. Learn about T visas →
Confidential, compassionate representation
We handle every case with discretion and respect. Information in these applications is protected by federal confidentiality rules. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For trafficking help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Talk to an attorney
Book a confidential Zoom consultation with our U and T visa lawyer to learn whether you or a family member may qualify.
This page is general information, not legal advice.