Eligibility Requirements for T and U Visas Explained
Feb. 1, 2026
For individuals who have experienced severe trauma, such as human trafficking or certain crimes, the path to safety and legal status in the United States can feel overwhelming. The T and U visa programs are designed to provide relief to victims, allowing them to live and work legally while recovering from their experiences. However, understanding who qualifies and what documentation is needed can be daunting. Many feel lost in the paperwork, the waiting periods, and the legal requirements.
At Corbaci Law, P.C., with offices in Marlborough and Woburn, Massachusetts, we help clients in Boston, Marlborough, and Framingham understand the eligibility requirements for T and U visas. Through compassionate guidance and focused support in immigration law, we work to make the process as clear and manageable as possible. Call our firm today to discuss your options with a trusted immigration law attorney.
T Visa Eligibility Requirements
T visas aid human trafficking survivors, allowing them to stay in the U.S., recover, assist law enforcement, and rebuild. Applicants must meet key requirements.
First, the individual must have been a victim of a severe form of trafficking. This can include forced labor, sexual exploitation, or involuntary servitude. Second, the applicant must be physically present in the United States due to trafficking.
Finally, they must demonstrate compliance or willingness to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking cases.
Some of the main eligibility criteria include:
Severe form of trafficking: The applicant must have been subjected to force, fraud, or coercion.
Presence in the U.S.: The individual must be in the country because of the trafficking incident.
Cooperation with law enforcement: Willingness to assist authorities is often required, though exceptions exist for minors.
Substantial harm: Applicants must show that they would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.
While these criteria might seem straightforward, each case is unique. An experienced attorney can help victims gather the necessary evidence, complete the required forms, and explain the supporting documentation needed to strengthen their immigration case.
U Visa Eligibility Requirements
U visas provide protection for victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting criminal activity. These visas cover a broader range of criminal acts compared to T visas, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and other qualifying offenses.
To qualify, applicants must meet several conditions:
Victim of a qualifying crime: The crime must have occurred in the United States and caused significant harm.
Cooperation with authorities: The individual must be willing to assist law enforcement, prosecutors, or government officials.
Admissibility to the U.S.: Applicants must meet immigration law requirements to be eligible for legal status.
Crime occurred within the U.S.: The criminal activity prompting the visa application must have taken place on U.S. soil.
The U visa process can be lengthy and documentation-intensive. Victims often need to submit police reports, medical records, and personal statements. Because of the strict criteria, having guidance from an immigration law attorney can make a meaningful difference in securing a visa.
Common Documentation Needed for T and U Visas
Applying for T and U visas requires a careful assembly of evidence. Documents not only demonstrate eligibility but also help immigration officers understand the applicant’s circumstances and cooperation with authorities.
Applicants typically need the following types of documents:
Personal identification: Passports, birth certificates, and other ID documents to prove identity.
Police reports: Official records confirming the crime or trafficking situation.
Medical or psychological records: Evidence of harm or trauma resulting from the crime.
Statements of cooperation: Letters from law enforcement or government officials verifying the applicant’s assistance.
Affidavits or personal statements: Detailed accounts of the trafficking or criminal incident and its impact.
Gathering these documents can be stressful, especially for individuals still recovering from trauma. Corbaci Law, P.C., can assist clients in organizing their paperwork effectively, making sure all necessary forms and evidence are presented clearly for immigration law purposes.
Filing Process and Deadlines
After determining eligibility and collecting documentation, applicants must file the appropriate petitions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). T visa applications involve Form I-914, while U visa applications also use Form I-918. Filing accurately and on time is critical to avoid delays or denials.
Key points to remember include:
Petition submission: Both T and U visas require submitting the forms directly to USCIS, along with supporting evidence.
Biometric appointments: Applicants will likely need to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other biometrics.
Waiting periods: USCIS processing can take months or even years; maintaining patience and staying informed is important.
Continued cooperation: Applicants should remain available to assist law enforcement as needed throughout the process.
With immigration law constantly evolving, filing errors can have serious consequences. Working with an experienced attorney can help clients in Boston, Marlborough, and Framingham avoid common pitfalls and improve the chances of a successful outcome.
Benefits of T and U Visa Status
Obtaining a T or U visa is often a turning point for survivors of trafficking or serious crimes. Beyond legal paperwork, these visas represent stability, safety, and the ability to begin rebuilding life with dignity and security.
One of the most immediate benefits is lawful presence in the United States. Visa holders are protected from removal as long as their status remains valid, providing a sense of relief for individuals who have already lived through fear and uncertainty. This protection allows victims to focus on healing instead of worrying about deportation.
Another major advantage is authorization to work legally. With employment authorization, individuals can support themselves, pursue education, and regain independence. Many survivors find that being able to work lawfully restores confidence and control over their future.
T and U visa holders may also qualify for important public benefits, including:
Medical and mental health care
Trauma counseling and victim support services
Housing assistance programs
Food and financial aid programs
Victim compensation resources
These services are vital for recovery, aiding those facing physical injuries, emotional trauma, or financial instability from exploitation or crime.
Perhaps most importantly, both visas offer a clear path toward permanent residency. After meeting certain time and cooperation requirements, recipients may apply for a green card. This opens the door to long-term security, family stability, and future citizenship opportunities.
Additional benefits include:
The ability to request that qualifying family members join or remain in the U.S.
Greater protection when interacting with law enforcement or courts
Improved access to education and community resources
A sense of legal recognition as a victim deserving protection, not punishment
For many individuals, T and U visa status isn’t just about legal permission to stay—it’s about reclaiming control over their lives and building a future free from fear.
Understanding these protections empowers applicants. At Corbaci Law, P.C., we guide clients on how T and U visas support recovery, stability, and long-term goals.
Protect Your Rights With Professional Guidance
The journey toward obtaining a T or U visa can be challenging, but support is available. For victims of trafficking or qualifying crimes in Massachusetts, working with an experienced attorney like Christina Corbaci can make a significant difference in handling immigration law.
From gathering documents to filing petitions, the guidance provided can help applicants maximize their chances of success.
From our offices in Woburn and Marlborough, we help clients in Boston, Marlborough, and Framingham understand their options, protect their rights, and pursue legal status confidently. If you or a loved one may qualify for a T or U visa, reach out to us today for compassionate and knowledgeable assistance.
Your safety and future are important, and we’re here to help you take the next step. Reach out to our firm to schedule a consultation and start the process toward stability and security.