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If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime and is undocumented, you may be eligible for a U visa. U visas are nonimmigrant visas that provide temporary legal status and work authorization for victims of qualifying crimes who are willing to cooperate with law enforcement. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to U visas, including what they are, who is eligible, and how to apply.
What Are U Visas?
U visas were created by Congress in the year 2000 as part of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. They are intended to encourage victims of certain crimes to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement without fear of deportation. U visas are available to victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime.
Who Is Eligible for a U Visa?
To be eligible for a U visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have been a victim of a qualifying crime, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking.
- You must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse due to the crime.
- You must have information about the crime and be willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
- You must be admissible to the United States or be eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility.
How to Apply for a U Visa
To apply for a U visa, complete and submit Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must also provide evidence of the qualifying crime, such as police reports, court records, or affidavits from witnesses. You will also need to provide evidence of the substantial physical or mental abuse you suffered as a result of the crime.
If USCIS approves your U visa petition, you will be granted temporary legal status and work authorization for up to four years. After three years of continuous presence in the United States, you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card).
How Circling Eagle Law Can Help
U visas can provide a lifeline for victims of qualifying crimes who are undocumented and are afraid to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement. If you or someone you know may be eligible for a U visa, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the process and help you maximize your chances of success.
At Circling Eagle Law, we have helped many clients obtain U visas and other forms of relief for victims of crime. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help. (701) 401-7404