The U Visa provides protection for victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of those crimes. It offers a path to legal status, work authorization, and ultimately permanent residency for individuals who may otherwise fear coming forward due to their immigration status.

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

You may be eligible for a U Visa if you:

• Are a victim of a qualifying crime (e.g., domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, extortion, stalking, etc.)
  
  
• Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse
  
  
• Possess information about the crime
  
  
• Have been, are, or will be helpful to law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime
  
  
• The crime occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws
  
  

Certain family members of victims may also be eligible for derivative U Visas.

Key Benefits of the U Visa

• 4 years of legal status in the U.S.
  
  
• Work authorization (EAD)
  
  
• Ability to apply for a green card (permanent residency) after 3 years
  
  
• Protection from deportation while the application is pending
  
  
• Eligibility for certain qualifying family members to receive status as well
  
  

Application Process

1. Form I-918 – U Visa petition filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
   
   
2. Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) – Required to show your cooperation with police or prosecutors
   
   
3. Submit supporting evidence (police reports, medical records, affidavits)
   
   
4. Wait for adjudication – U Visa waitlists are lengthy, but applicants may receive deferred action while waiting
   
   

Important Considerations

• The U Visa cap is 10,000 per year for principal applicants, which can cause delays
  
  
• You can still apply even if the perpetrator hasn’t been arrested or convicted
  
  
• Past immigration violations generally do not bar you from applying
  
  
• U Visas are available to all genders and ages
  
  

In Summary

The U Visa gives victims of serious crimes a chance to rebuild their lives in safety. It supports justice, strengthens communities, and protects the most vulnerable—regardless of immigration status. If you or a loved one is a survivor of a crime, the U Visa may offer a path forward with dignity, safety, and legal protection.