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No one expects to become a victim of a crime. When it happens, it can cause fear, trauma, and great uncertainty about the future. Many immigrant victims also face another fear: that reporting a crime could affect their immigration status or lead to deportation.
The U Visa was created precisely to protect immigrant victims. The U Visa is a type of immigration status that allows certain individuals who have been victims of serious crimes in the United States Obtain immigration protection and begin the path to legal status.
The law recognizes that many immigrant victims help authorities investigate or prosecute crimes. For that reason, it offers immigration protection to those who cooperate with justice.
With a U Visa, a person can:
The U Visa process can be complex and emotionally difficult, especially because it requires discussing traumatic experiences.
In Eagan Immigration, We understand how difficult it can be to tell your story. Our team handles these cases with respect, confidentiality, and a legal strategy focused on protecting your safety and your immigration future.
If you believe you may have been a victim of a crime that qualifies for a U Visa, the attorney can review your situation and explain your options.
The U Visa was created to help individuals who have been victims of certain crimes in the United States and who have cooperated (or are willing to cooperate) with authorities.
One of the most important requirements of the process is to obtain a certification from a law enforcement agency confirming that the victim assisted in the investigation of the crime.
Many people believe they don't have options due to their immigration history, illegal entries, or previous deportations. However, the U Visa includes broad migratory pardons that can cover many situations.
In Eagan Immigration, we carefully review each case to identify if a person might qualify for protection under a U Visa.
Start with an inquiry to see if this option might apply to your situation.
They can also rate attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations to commit these crimes. However, having been the victim of a crime does not automatically guarantee approval of a U Visa.
Each case must be carefully analyzed to determine if it meets all legal requirements. Speaking with an immigration attorney can help you understand if your situation may qualify.
The U Visa offers several important protections for victims of crimes.
People with an approved U Visa receive legal status in the United States for up to four years.
Individuals with a U Visa can obtain employment authorization to work legally in the United States.
In many cases, certain relatives may be included as derivative beneficiaries.
Después de tres años con estatus de Visa U, muchas personas pueden solicitar la residencia permanente (green card).
The U Visa can help victims rebuild their lives with greater safety and stability in the United States.
The U Visa also helps strengthen criminal investigations by allowing victims to cooperate with authorities without fear of immigration consequences.
The U Visa is available for individuals who:
Each case is different, so speaking with an attorney can help you understand if your situation might qualify.
Yes.
Many people who apply for a U Visa do not have immigration status. As long as they meet the legal requirements, they can submit an application.
Some examples include domestic violence, aggravated assault, sexual assault, kidnapping, extortion, human trafficking, and stalking.
They can also rate attempts or conspiracies to commit these crimes.
Yes.
A certification from a law enforcement agency known as:
Form I-918 Supplement B
This document confirms that the victim assisted or is assisting in the investigation of the crime.
Due to the high number of requests, the process may take several years.
However, some people may receive Deportation protection and work permit while they await a final decision.
Yes.
The law allows to approve 10,000 U Visas per year for principal applicants. Dependent relatives do not count towards that limit.
Yes.
When the U Visa is approved, the person can receive employment authorization. In some cases, it is also possible to obtain work permission while the case is pending.
Yes.
Depending on the applicant's age:
If you have under 21 years old, you can include your spouse, children, parents, and siblings under 18 years of age.
If you have 21 years or older, you can include your spouse and your unmarried children.
Yes.
After maintaining U Visa status for three years, many people can apply for permanent residency.
Having illegal entries, previous deportations, or other immigration problems does not necessarily prevent applying for a U Visa.
The law allows for the request of an immigration waiver through the Form I-192.
In many cases, no.
The U Visa was created to protect immigrant victims who help authorities investigate crimes.
Yes.
It is not necessary for the aggressor to have been arrested or convicted. What's important is that the victim was helpful in the investigation of the crime.
In some cases, yes.
Even individuals with complicated immigration backgrounds can qualify, especially if they can apply for immigration forgiveness.
Requesting a U Visa may seem complicated, but understanding each stage of the process can help you prepare better.
The process begins when you contact our team.
During this conversation, we will review your situation, the crime that occurred, and the available evidence to determine if you might qualify.
One of the most important requirements is to obtain:
Form I-918 Supplement B
This document is signed by a law enforcement agency and confirms that the victim assisted in the crime investigation.
The next step is to prepare and present:
Form I-918 – Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
The case may include evidence such as:
USCIS will review the application and may request additional evidence.
If the U Visa is approved, the person can:
Well, what can I tell you, I am so happy and content, living a dream. After years of having no hope, thanks to the lawyers and the team at Eagan Immigration, today I have my work and travel permits, and the certainty that better things are coming. May God continue to help and enlighten them with his wisdom so they can help change the lives of more people like me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and infinite blessings. You are the best.
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Understanding your immigration rights and options is an important step for victims of crimes.
This section will include educational resources about the U Visa.
Our work in defense against deportation and humanitarian cases has been recognized by respected legal organizations. Beyond accolades, our priority is to prepare each case with responsibility and honesty.
We know that talking about a crime can be difficult.
In Eagan Immigration, we treat each case with respect, confidentiality, and a legal strategy focused on protecting your safety and your future.
We can help you to:
Start with a inquiry to find out if you might qualify for a U Visa.