Humanitarian Relief

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Humanitarian-based immigration eligibility changes frequently. This is because this type of aid is based on international events. For example, in recent years, there has been an influx of human trafficking victims which lead to the creation of the T and U visas. The most used common types of humanitarian relief include the following: 

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• VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) 

  • Under the Violence Against Women Act, the spouse of a US citizen or LPR may still apply for citizenship if the victim can prove they were in a good faith marriage and had joint residence with the abuser. Among other requirements, the victim must provide evidence of extreme cruelty, including physical, mental, sexual or financial abuse.  Both men and women who are victims of domestic abuse may apply under VAWA. 

• U-Visa

  • U Visas are given to victims of qualifying criminal activity. Victims must prove they suffered substantial physical or mental abuse. The criminal activity must have taken place inside of the United States. Victims must also obtain a law enforcement certification of helpfulness, showing they assisted law enforcement in identifying or preventing criminal activity. The annual cap for this visa is 10,000. 

• T-Visa

  • T Visa is given specifically to victims who suffered a severe form of human trafficking. To qualify for the visa, at minimum the victim’s presence in the United States must be on account of the trafficking and the victim must show they would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the United States. The T-Visa is subject to massive backlogs and has an annual cap of 5000.

• TPS- Temporary Protected Status 

  • TPS is given to foreign nationals that are unable to return to their home country due to conditions that prevent them from returning safely. This type of protection changes often since it is based on events such as ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, or extraordinary conditions. 

• DACA (see DACA under Student Visas & DACA) 

 

If you believe you are eligible under these types of relief, call us today at (713) 909 0752 or email at admin@nslawpllc.com to set up a consultation.  

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