What is a U-Visa?
The U-visa is a nonimmigrant visa that is set aside for crime victims and their immediate family members who have suffered substantial mental and/or physical abuse while in the United States and who are willing to help law enforcement and government officials with their investigation and prosecution of the crime.
The U-visa allows such victims to enter and stay in the country when they otherwise may not have been able to.
Can your child qualify as a beneficiary?
Yes, one of the benefits of the U-Visa is that it allows the petitioner to also add “beneficiary” family members to the application. And in fact, depending on the age of the main petitioner, it could extend to even beyond their children:
- If the petitioner is 21 years old and up, they can include their Spouse and unmarried Children under 21 in the petition.
- If the main petitioner is under 21, they can include their Spouse, children, parents, and siblings under 18.
This means, that if your under 21 and meet the qualifications to apply for a U-Visa, you could help a lot of family members obtain one as well.
Additionally, if you began the U-Visa petition while you were still single or unmarried, but during the process time you got married, you are still allowed to add your new spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the application.
Who Qualified for a U-Visa?
The following crimes are recognized by the USCIS as qualifying criminal activity for a U-visa:
- Murder
- Rape
- Sexual assault
- Sexual exploitation
- Domestic violence
- Stalking
- Blackmail
- Extortion
- Perjury
- Trafficking
- False imprisonment
- Torture
How Can I Prove Physical or Mental Abuse?
You will be required to prove your abuse allegations. You can do that by submitting police reports and affidavits from judges, court officials, medical personnel, school officials, social workers, etc.
How Do I Apply for U Visa?
In order to apply for a U-visa, immigrant victims of qualifying crimes should gather the following documents:
- USCIS Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant status)
- Certificationof your helplessness as prepared by a qualifying agency
- Evidence that substantiates your U-visa eligibility as well as your claims of substantial injury and abuse.
Contact Attorney Eric Price Today!
Whether you’re just getting started on your visa application process or you’re unsure where to turn after your application was denied, Attorney Eric Price is here for you. He is highly specialized in immigration law and can help evaluate all the complexities of your case. The first consultation is completely free. Call today at 1.855.662.2772.
Price’s dedication and hard work consistently leads to him being ranked among the best attorneys in immigration law. Let’s get started on building your future.
