Immigrant Crime Victims Can Learn About Visa Program In Keyport

FREEHOLD, NJ — The Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office will host three community outreach events about applying for what are known as “T-Visas” and “U-Visas,” which can be obtained for immigrants who are victims of - or who have knowledge of - certain crimes.

Look for the outreach events at the following locations on Sunday, Oct. 1:

• Noon to 1 p.m., Oct. 1, Freehold Borough Hall, 30 Mechanic St., Freehold.
• 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Oct. 1, St. Joseph-Our Lady of Fatima, 376 Maple Place, Keyport.
• 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., Oct. 1, St. Anthony of Padua Parish Center, 27 Oratory Way, Red Bank.

The events are free to attend and open to the public.

Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago said the issue of these visas is "vital."

"Do not be a silent victim. Remember that you are not alone, and reach out for support," the prosecutor's office said.

He said immigrants who are victims of certain crimes or have knowledge of certain crimes may be eligible to obtain legal residency status in the United States by application to federal authorities for a T-Visa or U-Visa.

These visas allow the recipient, as well as certain family members, to obtain an Employment Authorization Document deferred action of removal, parole status and the ability to remain in the United States for a period of up to four years to assist law enforcement in the prosecution of criminal activity.

In certain circumstances, a visa may be renewed or may serve as a basis for an application for permanent legal residency status after three years, the prosecutor's office said.

A person may be eligible for a T-Visa if he or she is, or has been, a victim of human trafficking and is helping in an investigation or prosecution of that crime.

To be eligible for a U-Visa, a person may qualify if he or she is the direct or indirect victim who suffered "substantial physical or mental abuse" of a qualifying criminal activity and has been helpful, or is likely to be helpful, in the prosecution of the criminal activity.

Attendees to any of these three events will be able to learn more, and also find out if they or someone they know may be eligible. For more information on the process, click here.