On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form I-914?)
- Context and workflow
- Failure prevention (What causes Form I-914 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form I-914 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form I-914?)
- Checklist (What is the Form I-914 checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form I-914 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form I-914?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-914?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
- Visual references
Quick summary
#This form is not intended for general public self-filing, as described in the Form DS-260 guide, as described in the Form DS-2019 guide.
T-VISA: T Nonimmigrant Status (Trafficking Victims)
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form I-914?)
#Form I-914 is used to apply for T Nonimmigrant Status, commonly referred to as a T visa, which is designed for victims of human trafficking who assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking cases. To qualify, you must be a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons and physically present in the United States due to trafficking.
Additionally, you must have complied with any reasonable request for assistance from a Federal, State, Tribal, or local agency with the authority to detect, investigate, or prosecute acts of trafficking, unless exempt due to age or trauma. All applications must be properly completed and submitted to USCIS according to the applicable form instructions.
First page of I-914 form
Source: I-914 PDF
Context and workflow
#The processing time for Form I-914 varies based on case type and current workload; it is advisable to consult the official USCIS processing time tool for updates.
Why this matters
- Inconsistencies often trigger returns or follow-up requests because they create uncertainty in the case record.
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Initiating application for humanitarian protection.
- Receipt Notice (a related form) confirms USCIS has received the application.
- Potential biometrics appointment for identity verification.
- Decision on application granting or denying T nonimmigrant status.
Who uses it
Form I-914 is intended for applicants who are victims of a severe form of human trafficking. To qualify for T Nonimmigrant Status, the applicant must be physically present in the United States due to trafficking and have complied with any reasonable request for assistance from law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking cases. Exceptions are made for applicants under 18 years of age or those unable to cooperate due to physical or psychological trauma. This status allows eligible individuals to remain in the United States temporarily and may lead to permanent residency.
When it is used
- T-VISA: T Nonimmigrant Status (Trafficking Victims)
- When petitioning for T-visa — approval of I-914 is a step toward this visa category
- When filing I-914 alongside I-765 (Work authorization for trafficking victims)
- After filing I-914 — I-485 may be the next step (Adjustment of status after 3 years or investigation complete)
- When filing I-914 alongside I-192 (Waiver of inadmissibility if applicable)
Failure prevention (What causes Form I-914 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the form without a valid signature.
- Failing to provide complete English translations of documents.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Inadequate personal narrative detailing the trafficking experience.
- To avoid incomplete application or insufficient evidence: Follow instructions carefully; include all required supporting documents.
- To avoid filing without i-914 supplement b law enforcement certification: Obtain law enforcement certification (Supplement B) from certifying agency; request early.
- To avoid insufficient evidence of trafficking or cooperation: Document severe trafficking, presence in U.S., and cooperation with investigation per instructions.
- To avoid missing personal statement or inconsistent timeline: Provide detailed statement; ensure dates and facts are consistent across evidence.
What it asks for (What does Form I-914 ask for?)
#- Your U.S. physical and safe mailing addresses.
- Your current immigration status and last entry into the United States.
- Submit evidence to establish each eligibility requirement.
- Applicant identification information
- Supporting documentation inventory
- Eligibility or purpose details
- Declarations and signatures
- Your full legal name as it appears on official documents
- Your date and place of birth
- The certification must also include the translator’s signature, printed name, the signature date, and the translator’s contact information
- Documentation related to: Evidence of being a victim of a severe form of trafficking
What you need (What do you need for Form I-914?)
#- The current edition of I-914
- Valid government-issued identification
- Supporting documentation for your case
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
- Evidence to establish each eligibility requirement.
- Evidence of being a victim of a severe form of trafficking.
- Evidence of physical presence in the U.S. due to trafficking.
- Evidence of extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.
- Gather and submit evidence to establish eligibility.
- Copy of your filed or approved I-765 (Work authorization for trafficking victims)
- Copy of your filed or approved I-192 (Waiver of inadmissibility if applicable)
Checklist (What is the Form I-914 checklist?)
#- Download the current I-914 and instructions from the official USCIS website
- Review the official I-914 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of I-914
- Ensure that you sign and date Form I-914 before submitting it, along with all necessary supporting documentation.
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Provides temporary immigration benefits to noncitizen victims of trafficking and their eligible family members | 27 to 29.5 monthsas of January 2026 |
- Processing times for I-914 vary by eligibility category and service center. Data sourced from the official USCIS processing times tool.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Renewal filings are often processed differently than initial applications. If you are renewing, file well before your current authorization expires — some categories allow you to continue working while the renewal is pending if filed on time.
- The service center assigned to your case affects how long it takes. USCIS distributes filings across multiple centers, and each has different workloads. You cannot choose which center processes your case.
- To check your estimated timeline: visit the official USCIS processing times tool, select your form and eligibility category, and note that the tool shows the filing date of cases currently being worked on — not a countdown from when you filed.
- While pending: track your case status online with your receipt number, respond promptly to any requests for additional evidence, and update your address through your USCIS account if you move.
Where to file
#Online filing is available for some categories — verify on the official form page. Otherwise, file by mail to the address in the instructions.
File online
Check the official I-914 page to see if online filing is available for your category.
Submit application
Paper filing addresses vary by eligibility category and state of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct filing address.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official USCIS website before submitting.
Fees
#Total possible cost: $85
Some categories are exempt from the biometrics fee.
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe filing fee for form i-914 is $0 (as of 02/01/26). Verify the current fee on the official fee schedule before filing. | $0 |
| Biometrics Services FeeThe biometrics services fee is $85 (as of 02/01/26), if required for your category. | $85 |
What is the total cost of Form I-914?
Most applicants pay $0 filing fee plus $85 biometrics fee, for a total of $85. Some categories are exempt from one or both fees.
Do I have to pay the biometrics fee?
The $85 biometrics fee is required for certain eligibility categories. Some categories are exempt. Check the official instructions for your category.
Can the Form I-914 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
Fees change; always verify on USCIS.
Form sections (What sections does Form I-914 have?)
#Personal Information
Applicant identification.
- Full name and A-Number if applicable
- Date of birth and nationality
- Current address and contact
Eligibility
Basis for the application.
- Category or classification claimed
- Supporting evidence type
- Dates establishing eligibility
Supporting Documents
Required attachments.
- Identity and status documents
- Category-specific evidence
- Fee payment or waiver request
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete application or insufficient evidence | Rejection | Follow instructions carefully; include all required supporting documents. |
| Filing without I-914 Supplement B law enforcement certification | Rejection | Obtain law enforcement certification (Supplement B) from certifying agency; request early. |
| Insufficient evidence of trafficking or cooperation | RFE | Document severe trafficking, presence in U.S., and cooperation with investigation per instructions. |
| Missing personal statement or inconsistent timeline | RFE | Provide detailed statement; ensure dates and facts are consistent across evidence. |
Examples (What are examples for Form I-914?)
#- Complete all certifications: Ensure all required official certifications are properly signed and dated.
- Verify documentation: All supporting documents must be current and properly formatted.
- Cross-reference information: Information must be consistent across all sections and supporting documents.
- A national from a designated country files I-914 after the government extends protected status for their homeland
- An individual who fled persecution in their home country uses I-914 to seek protection
- An applicant in the T-visa category files I-914 as part of their immigration process
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-914?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
- Filing I-914 guarantees protection from removal — Filing creates a pending application but does not guarantee approval. Eligibility requirements must be met and verified.
- You can apply at any time without regard to deadlines — Many humanitarian programs have strict filing windows. Late applications may be rejected unless qualifying exceptions apply.
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update I-914, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#An applicant files the application with all required supporting documents and the correct fee.
Application accepted. Biometrics may be scheduled. Case proceeds to adjudication.
Follow the evidence checklist for your category. Missing documents trigger RFEs or denial.
An applicant files before the eligibility window (e.g., I-751 outside the 90 days before conditional residence expires).
Application rejected. Fee returned. Must refile when eligible.
Verify eligibility dates carefully. Filing too early is as problematic as filing late.
An applicant forgets to sign the form.
Application rejected. Must resubmit with signature. Unsigned forms are not accepted.
Sign and date the form. Review the signature block before mailing.
Why it matters
#If you are under 21, you can file for more family members.
Why it matters: Filing for family members can provide them with protection and benefits.
You can file for family members facing retaliation.
Why it matters: This provides safety for family members who may be in danger due to your cooperation with law enforcement.
Photocopied signatures are accepted.
Why it matters: This allows for more flexibility in submitting the form, especially if the original signature is not available.
Form I-914, Supplement B is optional but can strengthen your application.
Why it matters: Providing this form can serve as strong evidence of your cooperation with law enforcement.
Next steps
#- Receive a Receipt Notice (a related form) confirming application submission.
- Attend a biometrics appointment if required.
- Await a decision on the application for T nonimmigrant status.
- If approved, receive documentation of T status and related benefits.
Verification
#This guide is derived from official USCIS instructions for I-914 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official USCIS website.
Visual references
#FAQs
What is I-914?
I-914 is the Application for T Nonimmigrant Status.
Where can I file this form?
Please consult the official instructions to verify the most current filing addresses and submission methods.
What is the filing fee?
Check the current fee schedule on the official website.
How long does processing take?
Processing times can differ. To get the most accurate information, consult the official processing times tool.
What documents do I need?
Review the instructions for a complete list of required documents.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for I-914?
You need a reliable mailing address for notices and card delivery. If you do not have a stable address, USCIS allows alternatives (e.g., a representative's address or safe mailing options) per official rules — review the instructions for your situation.
Who is eligible to file I-914?
Form I-914 serves as the application for T Nonimmigrant Status, specifically tailored for victims of human trafficking who aid law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting trafficking offenses. This status grants eligible individuals the opportunity to stay in the United States temporarily, with the potential for permanent residency. To be eligible for T-1 nonimmigrant status, you must demonstrate that you are, or have been, a victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons.
What happens after I submit I-914?
After submitting I-914, USCIS will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
What are common reasons I-914 gets rejected?
Common reasons I-914 is rejected include missing or incorrect signatures, using an outdated form edition, incomplete required fields, incorrect fee payment, missing required supporting documents, and photographs that do not meet official specifications. Carefully review the instructions and checklist before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
Find my visa