The U nonimmigrant visa, also knows as “U-visa,” was created by Congress in 2000 to help victims of specific crimes committed in the U.S. who in turn help police forces within the U.S. apprehend the criminal perpetrators.
Immigration law is complex. That’s why you need the guidance, experience, and expertise of a skilled immigration attorney. We believe that the American Dream should be made possible for all. Our firm is proud to bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and integrity to immigrants in the United States and abroad. Our goal is to help clients successfully move through the complicated immigration system of the United States in order to obtain legal status. Contact us today at 1.855.662.2772 and let’s get started.
What is a U-Visa?
The U-visa is a nonimmigrant visa that is set aside for crime victims, and more recently also 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.
Is a U Visa a Green Card?
A U-visa is not a green card. However, you may be able to adjust your status to “permanent resident” and receive your green card after three continuous years of presence in the U.S. Once you receive a U-visa, you should apply for a green card ASAP because you must continue to be eligible for a green card as a U-visa crime victim when you apply. The U-Visa expires four years after its issuance.
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.
U Visa Requirements Checklist
Here is everything you need while petitioning for a U-visa:
- USCIS Form I-918 (available free online)
- USCIS Form I-918, Supplement A (if also applying for derivative status for a qualifying family member)
- USCIS Form I-918, Supplement B (completed and certified by a qualifying agency)
- Supporting documents, including personal narrative statement in which you detail how you are a crime victim and the circumstances surrounding the crime. This statement can be used to prove you were not at fault for the crime and to supply any information that shows how you helped (for example, if you called 911 to report the crime), and the extent of your injuries.
- Evidence that proves you are the victim of a qualifying crime, including trial transcripts, news clippings, police reporters, affidavits, and so on.
- Evidence to prove you suffered substantial physical and/or mental abuse, including affidavits from social workers, medical personnel, and police, pictures of your injuries, and affidavits from people who have personal knowledge of the criminal activity in question.
- Evidence that proves you have provided helpful information about the crime.
If you are filing for your U-visa while you are outside of the U.S., you will need to undergo an additional step of consular processing.
What Happens After U Visa is Approved?
When your u-visa is approved, you will be sent the following documents:
- U-via approval notice
- I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) approval notice.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
What if U Visa is Denied?
If your U visa is denied, your status simply stays the same as it was before. So, if you are in the country without legal documentation, you may be subject to detention and deportation.
It may be possible to appeal your u-visa denial with the guidance of a skilled immigration attorney.
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.
