We help you file your T Visa to secure your status in the U.S. from San Diego
Get legal status and work authorization without delay
What the T Visa Is and how It helps you in San Diego
The T Visa is for individuals who have endured severe labor or sex exploitation and are in the U.S. as a direct result. This status allows individuals to remain for up to four years without threat of deportation, provided they have cooperated with authorities or qualify for a trauma or age exception   .
Its primary purpose is to provide a safe path to immigration relief: it grants immediate work authorization, access to essential services like healthcare, housing, and education, and starts a pathway to permanent residency after three continuous years .
T Visa benefits in San Diego
Discover the key advantages the T Visa gives you for stability and well-being in the U.S.
Up to 4 years of protected status
Safe stay with removal protection.
Immediate work authorization
Begin working from day one upon approval.
Access to state and federal benefits
Healthcare, housing, and education coverage.
Family inclusion available
Your spouse and children can benefit too.
What do you get with your consultation?
We help you understand your immigration situation and the steps you can take.
Personalized review of your case
Clear explanation of your legal options
Direct guidance from a specialized attorney
T Visa requirements in San Diego
Check if you meet the essential requirements to apply for the T Visa.
- Been a victim of a “severe form of trafficking” (sexual or labor)
- Present in the U.S. (or port of entry) as a direct result of that trafficking
- Cooperated with law enforcement or qualify for an exemption (minor or trauma)
- Demonstrate risk of “extreme and unusual hardship” if removed
- Be admissible or eligible for a waiver (Form I‑192)
Why choose The Cruz Law Office for your consultation?
Because your case deserves real attention, legal experience, and a human approach from the very first contact.
- Proven immigration experience
- Friendly, clear, and professional service
- Guidance focused on your peace of mind
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is T non-immigrant status and how can it protect me?
The T Visa (T-1 status) allows up to four years of lawful stay for people who have suffered a severe form of exploitation in the United States, grants an automatic work permit, provides access to certain federal and state benefits, and creates a pathway to apply for permanent residence.
Who is eligible to apply for a T Visa?
You must show that you were subjected to a severe form of exploitation inside the United States, are physically present here because of that exploitation, have cooperated or are willing to cooperate with law enforcement unless exempt (for example, minors or survivors with trauma), and would face extreme hardship if removed.
Do I need a police report to prove cooperation with authorities?
A signed Form I-914 Supplement B from a law-enforcement agency is the strongest evidence, but USCIS also accepts alternative credible documents that describe how you assisted or are willing to assist if you cannot obtain Supplement B.
How long does T Visa processing usually take?
Recent national median times range from about 19 to 23 months, and once your filing is deemed “bona fide” you may receive interim benefits while the full review continues.
Is there a yearly limit on T Visas?
Congress caps principal T-1 approvals at 5,000 per fiscal year, but the agency has never reached that limit, so qualified petitions continue to be approved throughout the year.
Can my family members be included?
Yes—spouses and children may qualify regardless of your age; if you are under 21, your parents and unmarried siblings under 18 can also apply, and relatives facing retaliation risk may seek derivative status (T-2 through T-6).
Will my family members also get work authorization?
Derivative relatives must file their own employment-authorization applications, but work permits are generally issued after USCIS approves their derivative status.
Does the T Visa lead to a Green Card?
After holding T status for three years—or sooner if the investigation is complete—you may apply for a Green Card with Form I-485, provided you maintained good conduct and satisfied the cooperation requirement.
What forms and fees are required?
The principal filing is Form I-914, which has no government fee; Supplement A for family members is also fee-exempt, and those who need separate work cards file Form I-765.
Can I travel outside the United States while in T status?
International travel is possible only after receiving advance parole by filing Form I-131; leaving without it can terminate your T status, so always seek legal advice before departing.
Our Offices
The Cruz Law Office
960 W San Marcos Blvd STE 200,
San Marcos, CA 92078,
United States
The Cruz Law Office, APC
3200 Fourth Ave #203,
San Diego, CA 92103,
United States
Contact Us for Your T Visa in San Diego
At The Cruz Law Office, we are here to assist you with all your immigration needs. Whether you need legal advice, help with your visa applications, or just have a question, our team of immigration lawyers in San Diego is ready to provide the support you need.