U Visas for Crime Victims Assisting Law Enforcement

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An undocumented immigrant's bad luck at being the victim of a crime in the United States can turn into good luck if he or she is seeking a visa to remain longer. The U visa offers victims of certain crimes a path to temporary, and in some cases permanent U.S. residence. The person must be currently assisting or have previously assisted U.S. law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of a crime, or be likely to help in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.

U Visa Eligibility

U Visas for Crime Victims Assisting Law Enforcement: Who Is Eligible
U.S. visas are available for crime victims who provide helpful information to investigating authorities
Should You Apply for a U Visa or for VAWA?
U visas and the VAWA self-petition differ in several ways, but there are situations when you can choose which immigration relief suits you better.
Differences Between T and U Visas
For victims of human trafficking, two different visa options are available.

Application Process for a U Visa

What's Needed for a U Visa Certification of Helpfulness
For your U visa application, you'll need a law enforcement official to certify that you have helped (or are helping) to apprehend and convict the criminals.
Filing an I-918 Petition for a U Visa
Line-by-line instructions on how to fill out Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status.
How Long Will It Take to Get a U Visa?
Understanding "normal" processing times and common sources of delay.
Can I Travel Outside the U.S. With My Current or Pending U Visa?
If USCIS granted or is deciding on your U status, travel will require you to visit a U.S. consulate for a return visa -- which could be denied.
What Family Members Need to Prove to Get Derivative U Status
Who qualifies, and how to prove it within the application process.
How to Get Law Enforcement to Help You Obtain a U Visa
Dealing with one of the trickier part of the process of getting a U visa: convincing a law enforcement agency to complete an affidavit or “Certification of Helpfulness.”

After Approval for a U Visa

Will a U Visa Ever Lead to a Green Card?
Find out which applicants can apply for permanent residence in the U.S.
Applying for a Green Card From U Status
Procedures to become a U.S. lawful permanent resident following U status.