DC, Virgina & Maryland T-Visa Attorneys

T Visas Explained:

The T visa is a powerful form of immigration relief designed to protect victims of human trafficking and help them rebuild their lives in the United States. At Motion Law, we guide survivors through this process with discretion, care, and a deep understanding of both the law and the trauma involved. The immigration attorneys at Motion Law have years of experience handling nonimmigrant T Visa cases, so if you are in need of representation for a T-Visa application then simply contact us to arrange your free and confidential consultation today.

What is a T Visa?

A T nonimmigrant visa allows certain victims of severe human trafficking to remain in the U.S. temporarily and, eventually, apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card). It is available to individuals who were brought to or kept in the United States through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex acts

The purpose of the T visa is not only protection—but stability, safety, and a path forward.

Who May Qualify?

You may be eligible for a T visa if:

• You are a victim of a severe form of human trafficking
• You are physically present in the U.S. because of that trafficking
• You have complied with reasonable requests from law enforcement (with exceptions for minors or trauma-based limitations); and,
• You would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if removed from the U.S.

Each case is unique. Eligibility depends on the facts, available evidence, and your personal circumstances.

What Qualifies As Human Trafficking?

For T visa purposes, human trafficking is defined under U.S. federal law, not by how the abuse may feel subjectively. While many forms of workplace exploitation are illegal, not all labor abuse qualifies as human trafficking. To support a T visa application, the harm must rise to the level of “a severe form of trafficking in persons.”

The Legal Standard (Simplified) 

A T visa requires evidence of force, fraud, or coercion used to:

• Compel labor or services, or
• Cause a person to engage in commercial sex acts

This means the focus is not only on what happened—but how control was maintained. Wage theft is one example of how control may be maintained, but is not necessarily always sufficient to substantiate a T Visa application.

Benefits of a T Visa

A granted T visa can provide:

• Lawful status in the United States for up to four years
• Authorization to work legally
• The ability to include certain family members
• Access to federal and state benefits in some cases
• A pathway to a green card after three years or upon completion of the investigation

Most importantly, it offers protection and time to heal without fear of deportation.

Do You Need a Police Report To File a T Visa?

Not always. While cooperation with law enforcement is part of the T visa framework, the law recognizes that trauma, fear, or safety concerns may prevent full participation. Waivers and exceptions exist, especially for minors and individuals who cannot cooperate due to psychological or physical harm.

An experienced immigration attorney can help present your story clearly and lawfully.

How Motion Law Can Help

T visa cases require careful legal strategy, detailed documentation, and a trauma-informed approach. At Motion Law, we work closely with survivors, advocates, and support organizations to build strong applications while protecting our clients’ dignity and safety.

If you or someone you love may be eligible for a T visa, you do not have to face this process alone. Confidential help is available and your future matters.

Schedule a confidential FREE consultation with Motion Law to explore your options. Call: (202) 918-1799 now.