Immigration Assistance
Individuals are less likely to report a crime to the authorities if they fear that law enforcement will release them to immigration authorities. This reluctance may inhibit solving crimes and arresting offenders, as well as potentially exposing others to victimization.
To address this issue, Directive No. 2018-6 was issued by the State of New Jersey, Office of the Attorney General. This directive allows for the application of a “T” Visa which is designed to assist victims of human trafficking, and a “U” Visa which is designed to assist victims of certain violent offenses. A list of these offenses are listed under the “Qualifying Criminal Activities” on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Instructions for a "U" and "T" Visa
“U” Visa certifications are available to persons who are victims of an enumerated crime(s) identified in Part 3 of USCIS Form I-918 Supplement B (Attached), and are requesting temporary immigration benefits. In addition to being a victim of one listed violent offenses the person must comply with requests for assistance in the investigation and/or prosecution of the related crime. The person seeking a “U-Visa” should complete the USCIS Form I-918 located below:
The entire process to apply for a “U” Visa can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Website. On this site you will find the application, instructions on how to fill the form out, and directions on where to send the forms, along with a checklist you can follow.
T Visa certifications are available to persons who are victims of a severe form of trafficking in persons, as defined in Part C of USCIS Form I-914 Supplement B, and are requesting temporary immigration benefits. In addition to the person being a victim of a severe form of trafficking the person must comply with requests for assistance in the investigation and/or prosecution of the crime of trafficking. The person seeking a “T-Visa” should complete the USCIS Form I-914 located below:
The entire process to apply for a “T” Visa can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Website. On this site you will find the application, instructions on how to fill the form out, and directions on where to send the forms, along with a checklist you can follow.
