Generally, green cards are applied for in circumstances such as having lived and worked legally for a period of time in the United States; having married a U.S. citizen or legal resident; or through an immediate family member who is a citizen. However, not everyone is aware that it is possible to facilitate the process if you can prove that you were a victim of certain crimes or abuses.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) points out that in order to apply for permanent residency, also known as green card, the interested person must be eligible under one of the permitted categories. 

In that sense, it invites the interested parties to identify if they are in any of the assumptions and, if so, to obtain specific information, given that the requirements and eligibility criteria vary.

In general, the U.S. government may grant a green card in the following cases:

• Through family.
• Through employment.
• Special Immigrant.
• Through refugee or asylee status.
• For victims of human trafficking and other crimes.
• For victims of abuse.
• Through other categories.Through
• registration.

U.S. green card for being a victim of human trafficking

Regarding the specific case of crimes, Uscis points out that it applies to victims of human trafficking, as long as the person currently holds a T nonimmigrant visa and assists U.S. investigative agencies in the prosecution and investigation of criminal acts.

Such a visa is a temporary immigration benefit that allows one to remain in the United States for a maximum of four years. When in T nonimmigrant status, you can also obtain employment authorization and certain federal and state benefits and services. 

In this case, you must have been in the U.S. continuously for at least three years since you were admitted. Also, during that time, you must have demonstrated good moral character.

Victims of other crimes can obtain a Green card in the United States

In this case, it is necessary to have a U nonimmigrant status, which is given to people who can prove that they have been victims of certain crimes and have suffered physical or mental abuse.

This option applies to those who have faced abuse and are willing to assist public agencies in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity.

Obtaining a U.S. Green Card as a Victim of Abuse and Cruelty

Another option for obtaining permanent residency is if you were a victim of abuse or extreme cruelty. This can be even if the harm was caused by your spouse, even if he or she is a U.S. citizen or legal resident; also if you were abused by your U.S. child or parent.

Finally, the Green card is also available to those who are considered special immigrant juveniles. This is a minor who has been abused, abandoned or neglected by his or her parents.

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