What is the U visa?
The U visa is a nonimmigrant visa for victims of certain crimes who have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This visa is a valuable tool for immigrants who have been the victims of crime and want to stay in the United States and rebuild their lives.
Who is eligible for the U visa?
The main requirements to be eligible for a U visa are:
- You were a victim of a qualifying crime that inflicted physical or emotional harm on you, and
- You collaborated with law enforcement and it leads to the perpetrator getting arrested, or you testified against the perpetrator in court.
The Application process
In order to apply for a U visa you must:
- File an application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Fill out form I-918
- Submit a personal statement and a signed certification from a law enforcement official (Supplement B)
- Provide evidence of the crime committed against you and that you assisted law enforcement such as:
- A police report
- Witness statements
- Proof you were helpful to the police
- Provide evidence that you suffered substantial physical or mental or psychological injury such as:
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Be interviewed by USCIS
The application process for the U visa is lengthy, it is important to work with an immigration attorney if you are considering applying for this visa.
What are the benefits of the U visa?
If you are granted the U visa, you will be eligible for the following benefits:
- You can apply for the work permit after the initial review and approval of the U visa evidence
- You can apply for permanent residency after the final approval of the U visa
If you have been a victim of a crime, please contact our office to discuss your eligibility for U visa. We also want to extend some helpful resources to you:
- The National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−SAFE(7233)