1. What rights do US citizenship and T visa holders have?
US Citizens and T visa holders have the same rights that all US citizens have, including the right to vote, the right to be protected by federal and state laws, the right to work legally in the US, the right to obtain Social Security benefits, the right to receive government services, the right to travel freely within the US, and the right to petition for family members to come to the US. Additionally, T visa holders have special immigration benefits that allow them to adjust to permanent resident status after three years, access certain legal services, and protection from removal from the US if certain criteria are met.
2. How can a person become a US citizen?
A person can become a U.S. citizen either through birth or through naturalization. To obtain U.S. citizenship through birth, a person must be born in the United States, or born to two U.S. citizen parents outside the U.S., as long as at least one of the parents has lived in the United States. To obtain U.S. citizenship through naturalization, a person must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having been a permanent resident in the United States for at least five years, being able to speak, read, and write in English, having good moral character, and passing a civics and history test.
3. How does one apply for a T visa?
To apply for a T visa, applicants must fill out Form I-914, “Application for T Nonimmigrant Status,” and submit it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Along with the form, applicants must submit evidence that satisfies the requirements of a T visa. This includes proof of being the victim of a severe form of human trafficking, proof of having complied with any reasonable request for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking, and proof that the applicant would be subject to extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if removed from the United States.
4. What are the requirements for obtaining US citizenship?
To become a U.S. citizen, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old.
2. Have been a permanent resident for at least five years with no trips of 6 months or more outside of the United States.
3. Have lived within the state or USCIS district for at least three months before submitting the application.
4. Pass an English and civics test.
5. Have good moral character.
6. Pass a background check.
7. Take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States during a naturalization ceremony.
5. What are the benefits of being a US citizen?
Some benefits of being a US citizen are:
1. The right to vote in all national, state, and local elections.
2. The right to own property and receive government benefits.
3. The ability to travel freely within the US and without a visa to many foreign countries.
4. Access to certain federal jobs and US military service.
5. The ability to apply for green cards for members of your immediate family.
6. Eligibility for federal grants, loans, and other forms of financial aid.
7. The right to petition for certain family members to become US citizens.
6. How long does it take to become a US citizen through naturalization?
It can take up to 6 months to become a US citizen through naturalization, but the process can take much longer depending on individual circumstances.
7. What is the process for renewing a T visa?
To renew a T visa, you must submit a Form I-821, Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation, with supporting documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must also file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, if you wish to work. Additionally, you must file Form I-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification if you are still eligible for T visa status. USCIS will review the application and supporting documents and make a decision. The renewal period is usually three years from the date of the initial grant, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the particular circumstances.
8. Are there any special considerations for T visa holders to become US citizens?
Yes. T visa holders are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after three years of residency in the United States, provided they meet certain requirements: (1) they must be physically present in the United States for a continuous period of at least three years; (2) they must demonstrate good moral character; (3) they must demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideas of the U.S. Constitution; and (4) they must pass an English and civics test.
9. What are the eligibility requirements for a US citizenship application?
In order to apply for U.S. citizenship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Be 18 years old or older
2. Have been a permanent resident of the United States for at least five years
3. Have had continuous residence in the United States for at least five years prior to applying
4. Have good moral character
5. Have an understanding of English and knowledge of U.S. government and history
6. Have a residence in the district or state where the application is filed for at least three months prior to applying
7. Be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the U.S.
10. How can a person obtain permanent residency in the United States?
A person can obtain permanent residency in the United States by obtaining what is known as a Green Card. A Green Card is the official document that grants permanent residency, and it is typically obtained through family sponsorship, employment sponsorship, refugee or asylum status, or through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (also known as the “Green Card lottery”).
11. Can a T visa holder travel outside of the US while their application is pending?
No, a T visa holder cannot travel outside of the US while their application is pending.
12. What rights do T-visa holders have to work legally in the United States?
T-visa holders have the right to work legally in the United States for a period of four years after they are granted T-status. They must also obtain a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or a work permit from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This document will allow them to apply for jobs, receive wages, pay taxes, and work in the United States without fear of deportation.
13. How long is a T visa valid for?
A T visa is valid for up to four years.
14. What documents or evidence do I need to submit in order to apply for US citizenship through naturalization?
To apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, you will need to submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, along with supporting documents such as proof of your identity and lawful status in the United States, proof of physical presence and residence requirements, evidence of good moral character, and a written test demonstrating basic knowledge of English and civics (U.S. history and government). Additionally, you will need two passport-style photos, a copy of your valid Permanent Resident Card (green card), and the filing fee.
15. How long does it take to process an application for US citizenship through naturalization?
The processing time for an application for US citizenship through naturalization can vary significantly and depends on the individual applicant’s circumstances. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to process a naturalization application.
16. How do I become a permanent resident after obtaining a T visa?
Once you have obtained a T visa, you must apply for a green card to become a permanent resident. In order to apply for a green card you must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This application is available on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
17. Can I apply for US citizenship if I have a criminal record?
Yes, you can apply for US citizenship even if you have a criminal record. The criminal record may affect your eligibility for US citizenship, and the naturalization application process will include a background check and an interview with an immigration officer.
18. What types of visas are available to people who want to become permanent US residents?
The most common types of visas available for people who want to become permanent US residents are immigrant visas, such as family-based, employment-based, and diversity visas. Other types of permanent residency visas include special immigrant visas for religious workers, international adoptees, and investors.
19. Does having a T visa automatically grant me permanent residency in the United States?
No, a T visa does not automatically grant you permanent residency in the United States. A T visa is a temporary visa that grants non-citizen victims of human trafficking up to four years of residency in the United States. After the four-year period, victims may be eligible to apply for a green card and permanent residency.
20. What is the difference between an immigrant visa and a nonimmigrant visa?
An immigrant visa is a type of visa that allows someone to permanently live and work in the U.S. whereas a nonimmigrant visa is a type of visa that allows someone to temporarily live and work in the U.S. for a limited amount of time. Immigrant visas usually require a sponsoring family member or employer, and can take longer to obtain than nonimmigrant visas. Nonimmigrant visas are typically more readily available and do not require sponsors.