U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transmitted today an interim final rule to the Federal Register that will allow “T” and “U” nonimmigrants to adjust status their status and become lawful permanent residents. The “T” nonimmigrant status, also known as the “T” visa, was created to provide immigration protection to victims of a severe form of human trafficking. The “U” nonimmigrant status, or “U” visa, is designated for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse because of the crime and who are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation of the criminal activity.

BACKGROUND

Congress created the “T” and “U” nonimmigrant classifications with passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act in October 2000. The legislation was intended to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking of persons and other crimes while, at the same time, offering protection to victims of such crimes. The legislation also helps law enforcement agencies to better serve immigrant crime victims.