T Visa for Immigrants Who Were Trapped or Exploited

If someone forced or tricked you into labor, sex work, or abuse, you may qualify for a T Visa. Here’s how it works and how to apply safely.

This article explains how to apply for a T Visa, which protects victims of human trafficking — including forced labor, sex work, or extreme exploitation. If someone used your fear, immigration status, or desperation to trap you, this may apply to you.

DISCLAIMER:

This is not legal advice. T Visas are for real victims of trafficking or coercion. USCIS investigates every case carefully. Never fake a claim. Fraud harms true survivors and can lead to serious consequences.

What Is a T Visa?

A T Visa is for victims of human trafficking — people who were:

  • Forced
  • Tricked
  • Threatened
  • Or exploited for labor or sex

This includes people who:

  • Were brought to the U.S. for a job they couldn’t escape
  • Were made to work under threat of deportation or violence
  • Were used for sex in exchange for food, shelter, or immigration help
  • Were “housed” or “sponsored” by someone who later isolated and controlled them

Who Qualifies for a T Visa?

You must show:

  • You are (or were) a victim of severe human trafficking
  • You are in the U.S. because of that trafficking
  • You would suffer extreme hardship if forced to leave
  • You either cooperated with law enforcement or are willing to cooperate (with some exceptions)

Examples of Situations That May Qualify

  • A partner forced you to do sex work and kept the money
  • A “sponsor” or host family made you clean, cook, or work for free
  • You were promised a job, then forced to work under threats or in dangerous conditions
  • You couldn’t leave because your documents were taken or your immigration status was used against you
  • You were abused, filmed, or sold by someone who used your fear of deportation to control you

How to Apply

  1. File Form I-914 with USCIS
  2. Include evidence:
    • Your personal statement (what happened, how it impacted you)
    • Any police reports or investigations
    • Witness statements
    • Proof of injuries, abuse, or confinement
  3. Include Form I-914B if law enforcement agrees to confirm your story — but this is not always required

Benefits of a T Visa

  • Legal status in the U.S. for up to 4 years
  • A work permit
  • The ability to apply for a green card after 3 years
  • Protection from deportation
  • The chance to include certain family members in your case (even if they’re abroad)

You Don’t Have to Be Locked in a Basement

Most trafficking cases look “normal” from the outside.
But if someone used fear, manipulation, or immigration control to exploit you, your case may still qualify.

You may be a victim even if:

  • You came on a visa willingly
  • You agreed to help someone — but then couldn’t leave
  • You were in a relationship that turned into control, forced labor, or sex for survival
  • You were afraid to speak up because of your immigration status

Stay Safe While Applying

  • Use a private email and safe device
  • Don’t keep copies where the trafficker can find them
  • Work with a nonprofit or lawyer who handles T Visas
  • Avoid anyone offering “fast approvals” — they are scammers

Final Word

If someone used your fear to trap you — you were trafficked. And you have the right to escape, recover, and stay safe.

The T Visa is here to protect survivors like you — not punish you for being taken advantage of.

Recommended Reading

[What If My VAWA Is Denied? Here’s What to Do Next]

[What Counts as Abuse for Immigration Purposes]

[How to Stay Safe While Applying (Without Tipping Them Off)]