A U-Visa is a nonimmigrant visa offered by the United States specifically for victims of certain crimes (and their immediate family members) who have endured significant physical or emotional harm while in the U.S. and are willing to cooperate with law enforcement or government authorities in investigating or prosecuting the crime. This visa allows these victims to enter or stay in the U.S. when they might otherwise be unable to do so.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides immigration relief to abused spouses, children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and parents of U.S. citizen sons or daughters, allowing them to apply for relief independently of their abusive family member. Eligible individuals can “self-petition” under VAWA, which is available to both men and women.

T nonimmigrant status (T-Visa) is a temporary immigration benefit that allows certain victims of severe forms of human trafficking to remain in the United States for an initial period of up to four years. To qualify, victims must comply with reasonable requests for assistance from law enforcement in the detection, investigation, or prosecution of trafficking, or meet criteria for an exemption. Additionally, eligible family members of trafficking victims may also obtain T nonimmigrant status. Those with T nonimmigrant status are entitled to employment authorization and certain federal and state benefits and services. They may also be able to adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents if they meet the necessary requirements.