The United States offers several forms of humanitarian immigration relief for individuals who have suffered persecution or face dangerous conditions in their home country. Understanding these options can help you determine if you qualify for protection.
Asylum
Asylum is available to individuals who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. You must apply within one year of arriving in the U.S.
U Visa
The U visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and who are helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. U visa holders may eventually apply for permanent residence.
VAWA
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to file their own immigration petitions without the abuser’s knowledge.
TPS (Temporary Protected Status)
TPS is available to nationals of designated countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. TPS provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization.
