Humanitarian Immigration
Protecting individuals seeking safety and humanitarian relief.
Asylum
Protection for individuals who have suffered or fear persecution
Every year people come to the United States seeking protection because they have suffered persecution or fear that they will suffer persecution due to:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Membership in a particular social group
- Political opinion
You may only file this application if you are physically present in the United States, and you are not a U.S. citizen.
VAWA: Abused Spouses, Children & Parents
VAWAProtection for survivors of abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative — without the abuser's knowledge
Aliens who have been abused by certain U.S. citizens or lawful permanent resident relatives may be eligible for immigration benefits under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) without the abuser's knowledge, consent, or participation. Certain benefits may also be available to eligible family members.
U Visas — Victims of Other Crimes
U VisaFor crime victims who assist law enforcement in an investigation or prosecution
U nonimmigrant status is available to aliens who are victims of certain crimes, have suffered mental or physical abuse, are helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity, and meet other requirements. Certain benefits may also be available to eligible family members.
T Visas — Victims of Human Trafficking
T VisaFor trafficking survivors who assist law enforcement or qualify for an exemption
T nonimmigrant status is available to aliens who are victims of a severe form of trafficking, are physically present in the United States, have provided assistance to law enforcement or qualify for an exemption or exception, and meet other requirements. Certain benefits may also be available to eligible family members.
Temporary Protected Status
TPSTemporary protection for nationals of designated countries unable to safely accept returns
The Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country's nationals from returning safely, or in certain circumstances, where the country is unable to handle the return of its nationals adequately. USCIS may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain countries (or parts of countries) who are already in the United States. Eligible individuals without nationality who last resided in the designated country may also be granted TPS.