U Visa for Victims of Criminal Activity

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:

  1. 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)
  2. 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
  3. Provide evidence that you suffered substantial physical or mental or psychological injury such as:
    • Witness statements
    • Medical records
  4. 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: