According to the statute,11 human trafficking need not involve transport of the victim across international or state boundaries. Victims include U.S. citizens, legal aliens and those who have entered the country illegally. A person is deemed a victim of human trafficking on the basis of the definition in the preceding paragaph and not on the basis of his or her citizenship or method of entry into the United States. All victims are protected under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act and are not to be considered criminals. The U.S. Department of Justice created a special “T visa” for victims of trafficking.13 Even people who entered the United States illegally are eligible for this trafficking visa if they meet federal criteria.13 In addition, the regulations include a provision for conversion to permanent resident status after three years.13