Today, let’s talk here about the T-Visa, a special visa for people dealing with tough and unfair treatment at work. Sometimes this is referred to as the Severe Labor Trafficking Visa. It’s NOT just for the migrants who come in trucks by the cartels through the U.S. Border. That’s false news and a wrong stereotype, although those situations definitely qualify. The T-Visa is much broader than that!
What is the T Visa, and does it relate to my job or work?
This T-Visa is a legalization pathway for undocumented immigrants. It caters towards those who have experienced a violation of employment or human rights while working in the U.S. This could mean the undocumented immigrant working as a gardener, a live-in nanny, dishwashing, or working as a store clerk. It could be a farm worker, or even someone working in your local nails salon. People forced in bad work situations can qualify for the T-Visa.
There are 10 warning signs that could indicate exploitation at work. These might make you eligible for this visa. They are below.
1. Taken Documents
If your employer has taken your passport, ID, or other important papers. They might be trying to control you and stop you from leaving.
2. Not Getting Paid
Are you’re working without pay? Is your employer is holding back your wages as a threat? this is a common sign of forced labor. If your boss says he they have not received pay, so you wait or only get partial payment – that’s an abuse of your employment rights. You can qualify for a T-Visa.
3. Threats of Deportation
If your boss threatens to report you to immigration as a way to control or scare you. This is exploitation of your immigration status. Even if your boss just discusses your immigration status with you constantly! If they try to convince you that you CANNOT legalize – it’s a violation of your rights.
4. Unsafe Working Conditions
If you’re forced to work in dangerous or unsanitary conditions without any protection. This is another big sign of exploitation. You need to have special safety equipment and extra help (even other people to help you) in many situations. Bosses take advantage of undocumented immigrants and do not give this to protect you.
5. Working Long Hours Without Breaks
Do you have to work for long hours without any breaks? This could be a way to keep you from leaving or asking for help. You could be NOT getting paid for overtime. You may not be getting PAID Time Off for being sick or working through being ill. This is wrong and a violation of your rights.
6. Isolation
Are you being cut off from coworkers or the outside world? Your employer might be isolating you to make you feel trapped or alone. They make you feel like you cannot complain and no one will listen to you.
7. Forced or Pressured to Work
If you face force or a threat to working, whether by intimidation or physical force, this is clear labor exploitation. Maybe you feel tired or sick or have already worked more than 8 hours? If your boss is forcing you to stay at work, threatening to fire or deport you without a good reference, this is a violation of your rights.
8. Restrictions on Your Freedom
Does your employer keep you from leaving the workplace or your home? This is often a tactic to prevent you from getting help.
9. Debt Pressure
If your employer uses debt to make you work, this is often a form of exploitation.
10. Emotional Manipulation or Abuse
If you feel controlled through fear, guilt, or manipulation, this emotional pressure is also a form of exploitation.
If any of these signs sound familiar, remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. The T visa helps victims of labor exploitation or trafficking get out of these situations. They can then apply for legal immigration status.
The T visa supports people in unfair and harmful work situations, giving them a chance at freedom and stability. If you or someone you know is facing any of these signs, reach out to us for a consultation. Remember, there are legal ways to protect you, and you don’t have to face this alone. Thanks for watching, and don’t forget to subscribe and turn on notifications to stay informed about immigrant rights!
Call SHEPELSKY LAW today to legalize in US and schedule a consultation with one of our team!