U Visa forCrime Victims
Legal protection, work authorization, and a path to residency for crime victims who cooperate with law enforcement. Over 35 years defending our community.
Eligibility Requirements
Who Qualifies for the U Visa?
Victim of a Qualifying Crime
Must have been a direct or indirect victim of one of the 25+ qualifying crimes under the law, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, kidnapping, torture, among others.
Substantial Abuse
Must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime. This is documented with medical records, psychological evaluations, and detailed personal statements.
Cooperation with Authorities
Must have cooperated, be cooperating, or be willing to cooperate with police, prosecutors, or other law enforcement agencies in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
Crime in the United States
The crime must have occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws. This includes crimes in U.S. territories and on military bases abroad.
What is the U Visa?
Protection for Crime Victims
Immigration status for victims who cooperate with law enforcement
The U Visa (U Nonimmigrant Status) was created by the United States Congress under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA) of 2000. Its purpose is to protect victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and who cooperate with law enforcement or prosecutors in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This status allows victims to remain legally in the United States, obtain a work permit, and eventually apply for permanent residency (Green Card) after three years.
Qualifying Crimes:
The complete list of qualifying crimes includes over 25 offenses. If you were a victim of a violent crime in the U.S., you may qualify even if you have no immigration status.
How We Protect Your Case
Free Consultation
We evaluate your case confidentially. We analyze the facts of the crime, your current immigration situation, and determine if you qualify for the U Visa or other immigration relief.
Case Analysis
We review police reports, crime evidence, and medical or psychological documentation. We identify the correct law enforcement agency for certification and anticipate possible obstacles.
Legal Strategy
We develop a personalized strategy: we obtain the law enforcement certification, prepare the personal statement, and if necessary, file the I-192 waiver simultaneously.
Filing & Outcome
We file the case with USCIS, manage the bona fide determination for your work permit, and accompany you through the final U Visa approval and residency application.
Frequently Asked Questions about the U Visa
Clear answers to the most common questions from crime victims.
Can I get a U Visa if I am undocumented?
Yes. The U Visa was specifically designed to protect crime victims regardless of their immigration status. Even people who entered without inspection, have deportation orders, or have no status at all can qualify. If you have grounds of inadmissibility, the I-192 waiver can resolve those obstacles.
What if the police won't sign the certification?
If the law enforcement agency refuses to sign Supplement B, there are legal strategies. We can contact other agencies that participated in the investigation (prosecutor's office, FBI, EEOC, Department of Labor), send formal requests explaining the legal obligation, or explore alternatives like the T Visa or VAWA depending on your situation.
How long does the U Visa process take?
Times vary. The bona fide determination, which grants work authorization and deportation protection, can be obtained within several months of filing the petition. Final U Visa approval depends on availability under the annual cap of 10,000 visas. Once approved, after 3 years you can apply for permanent residency.
Can my family be included in my U Visa?
Yes. As the principal petitioner, you can include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 as derivatives. If you are under 21, you can also include your parents and unmarried siblings under 18. Derivatives receive the same benefits: legal status, work authorization, and a path to residency.
Will the abuser find out I applied for the U Visa?
USCIS has strict confidentiality policies to protect crime victims. Your case information is not shared with the abuser. Additionally, there are extra protections under Section 384 of the IIRIRA law that prohibit using information provided by an abuser to initiate immigration proceedings against the victim.
Offices at Your Service
We serve crime victims nationwide from our 15 offices.
Related Articles
Legal guides written by our U Visa attorneys.
Were You a Crime Victim?
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(866) 979-5146Protect Your Rights Today
If you were a victim of a crime in the United States, we can help you obtain legal status. The consultation is confidential and free.