The U visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed to provide protection and immigration benefits to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse. This visa encourages victims to come forward and assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity, promoting public safety while offering a path to stability for the victims and their families.

To qualify for a U visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Qualifying Criminal Activity: The applicant must have been a victim of a qualifying crime, such as domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, or other serious offenses.
2. Substantial Harm: The applicant must have suffered significant physical or emotional harm as a result of the crime.
3. Cooperation with Law Enforcement: The applicant must assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This is documented through a signed certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a law enforcement agency.
4. Admissibility: Applicants must be admissible to the U.S. or obtain a waiver for any inadmissibility through Form I-192.

The U visa is valid for up to 4 years, with extensions available in certain circumstances. U visa holders may apply for work authorization and, after 3 years of continuous presence in the U.S., may become eligible to apply for permanent residency (green card). Family members of the victim may also qualify for derivative U visas.

At our firm, we are dedicated to helping victims of crime navigate the U visa process with compassion and care. We’ll guide you through each step, from gathering evidence to obtaining law enforcement certification, ensuring you have the support needed to secure your future in the United States.