U Visa for Victims of Crime

Immigration Help for Those Who Have Suffered Abuse or Violence

If you are a victim of a serious crime in the United States and you have helped (or are willing to help) law enforcement, you may qualify for a special immigration protection called the U Visa (U nonimmigrant status). This visa was created to protect victims and encourage them to report crimes without fear of deportation.

Our immigration team is here to guide you through this sensitive and complex process with compassion, confidentiality, and experience.

What Is a U Visa?

The U Visa is a temporary immigration status for noncitizens who:

• Have been victims of certain qualifying crimes;
• Suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result, and;
• Have helped, are helping, or are willing to help law enforcement or prosecutors investigate or prosecute the crime.

If approved, the U Visa can give you lawful status in the U.S. for up to 4 years, work authorization, and in many cases, a path to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence) in the future.

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

You may qualify for a U Visa if:

• You were the victim of a qualifying crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, kidnapping, felonious assault, stalking, or other serious offenses.
• The crime happened in the United States or violated U.S. laws.
• You suffered substantial physical or emotional harm because of the crime.
• You have information about what happened.
• You cooperated, are cooperating, or are willing to cooperate with law enforcement (police, prosecutors, judges, or other authorities) in the investigation or prosecution.
• You are admissible to the U.S., or you qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility.

Even if you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, it is worth talking to an experienced immigration attorney. Many people do not realize that what they went through might make them eligible for a U Visa.

Benefits of a U Visa

A U Visa can offer powerful protections and opportunities, including:

• Legal status in the United States (usually up to 4 years).
• Work permit (EAD) so you can work legally.
• Possibility to apply for certain family members to receive U status as derivatives (such as spouse, children, and in some cases parents or unmarried siblings).
• A potential path to a green card after meeting specific requirements and continuous presence.
• Protection from deportation while your case is pending and, if approved, during your U status.

The U Visa Process

While every case is unique, the U Visa process generally includes:

1. Evaluation of Your Case

We review your story, your immigration history, and your eligibility for a U status and any necessary waivers.

2. Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B)

This is a crucial step. A law enforcement agency (such as a police department, prosecutor’s office, or judge) must sign a certification confirming that you were a victim of a qualifying crime and that you were helpful, are helpful, or are likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution.

3. Preparing and Filing Your U Visa Application

We help gather evidence of the crime and the harm you suffered (police reports, medical records, psychological evaluations, witness statements, etc.), and we prepare and submit your U Visa package to USCIS.

Waivers of Inadmissibility (If needed)

If you have past immigration violations, criminal issues, or other grounds of inadmissibility, we analyze whether you qualify for a waiver and help prepare the strongest possible request.

1. Waiting Period and Work Authorization

Because there is an annual limit on U Visas, there can be long waiting times. During this time, certain protections and benefits may still be available. Our team monitors your case, responds to requests from immigration, and keeps you informed.

2. After Approval

Once approved, we guide you through maintaining your status, applying for work authorization (if not already granted), and later exploring the possibility of applying for a green card.

How Our Immigration Attorneys Help

Applying for a U Visa can be emotionally difficult and legally complex. Our firm supports you every step of the way:

• Confidential, trauma-informed consultations.
• Careful review of your police reports, court records, and evidence.
• Coordination with law enforcement to request the necessary certification.
• Strong preparation of your personal statement to explain the harm you suffered.
• Analysis of any waivers you need and preparation of those applications.
• Ongoing follow-up with USCIS and guidance on next steps after approval.

We know you have already been through a lot. Our goal is to take as much stress off your shoulders as possible while protecting your rights and future in this country.

Frequently Asked Questions About the U Visa

1. Do I still have to be helping the police to qualify?

You must have been helpful, be currently helpful, or be willing to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution. In many cases, reporting the crime, giving a statement, or testifying can qualify—but every case is different.

2. What if I’m undocumented or I entered without a visa?

Many U Visa applicants are undocumented or have immigration violations. The U Visa was designed to help people in exactly these vulnerable situations, and waivers may be available for many types of past issues.

3. Can my family get status through my U Visa?

In many cases, yes. Certain family members may be eligible as derivatives, such as your spouse, unmarried children under 21, and, in some cases, parents or siblings, depending on your age and situation.

4. How long does it take?

Processing times can be long because there is a yearly limit on U Visas. However, there are steps along the way that may provide protection and, in some cases, work authorization while you wait.

5. What if I’m afraid to talk about what happened?

We understand that sharing your story can be painful and scary. Our team treats your case with respect, patience, and confidentiality. We move at your pace and explain every step so you can make informed decisions.

Talk to an Immigration Attorney About Your U Visa Options

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a serious crime, you do not have to face this alone. There may be immigration protections available that can help keep you and your family safe in the United States.

Contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation

Serving clients throughout Smyrna, GA, and beyond.

Let our immigration team stand by your side as you rebuild your life and your future.