Humanitarian Visas

VISAS FOR PEOPLE SEEKING PROTECTION IN THE U.S.

Individuals who find themselves in dangerous or extreme circumstances abroad may apply for a humanitarian visa to seek relief in the U.S. These types of visas are also known as “humanitarian parole,” and allow an individual to reside in the country on a temporary basis.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers these types of visas to aid non-citizens suffering from urgent threats like trafficking and domestic abuse, or those who have been victims of crime in the U.S. Humanitarian visas have very specific criteria that can be difficult to navigate.

If you are in need of a humanitarian visa, call our experienced and compassionate visa attorneys at: (919) 836-5371

Trafficking & T-Visas

Victims of human trafficking and their families may be eligible to apply for a T Visa. T nonimmigrant status grants legal status to victims who report the trafficking to law enforcement agencies and assist in investigating as needed. T Visas provide work authorization and temporary status for up to four years to survivors and eligible family members. At the end of that period, they can apply for lawful permanent residence.

Abuse & VAWA

If you are suffering abuse (physical, financial, emotional, and/or psychological) at the hands of a family member who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may file an immigration visa petition to seek relief. Spouses, children, and parents who are victims of domestic violence may be eligible for a humanitarian visa under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

To file for the visa while overseas, at least one of the following circumstances must apply:

• The abuser is an employee of the U.S. government, or,

• The abuser is a member of the uniformed services; or,

• You were subjected to battery or extreme cruelty in the United States.

U Visas

If you or your minor child were the victim of a serious crime that took place in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws, you and your family may apply for a U Visa to seek temporary legal residence in the country. The main requirement for applying for temporary status under a U Visa is that you report the crime to U.S. law enforcement and cooperate with an investigation as needed. U visas provide work authorization and temporary status for up to four years to survivors and eligible family members At the end of that period, they can apply for lawful permanent residence.