The U Visa provides immigration relief and a path to lawful permanent residence for victims of serious crimes who are assisting or have assisted U.S. law enforcement. Designed to protect and empower crime victims, the U Visa program recognizes the hardships many individuals endure and offers them an opportunity to build a safe, stable future in the United States.
Do You Qualify for a U Visa?
The U Visa provides immigration relief and a path to lawful permanent residence for victims of serious crimes who are assisting or have assisted U.S. law enforcement. Designed to protect and empower crime victims, the U Visa program recognizes the hardships many individuals endure and offers them an opportunity to build a safe, stable future in the United States.
Who Qualifies for a U Visa?
You may qualify for a U Visa if you meet the following requirements:
You are the victim of a qualifying crime (listed below)
You have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime
You have reported the crime and are helping law enforcement with the investigation or prosecution
The crime occurred in the United States or violated U.S. law
You are admissible to the U.S. or qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility
Qualifying crimes include, but are not limited to:
Abduction
Abusive Sexual Contact
Blackmail
Domestic Violence
Extortion
False Imprisonment
Female Genital Mutilation
Felonious Assault
Fraud in Foreign Labor Contracting
Hostage Situations
Involuntary Servitude
Kidnapping
Manslaughter
Murder
Obstruction of Justice
Peonage (forced labor)
Perjury
Prostitution
Rape
Sexual Assault
Sexual Exploitation
Slave Trade
Stalking
Torture
Trafficking in Persons
Witness Tampering
Unlawful Criminal Restraint
Note:
The list is non-exhaustive. If you were the victim of a crime similar in nature to one of these listed offenses, you may still qualify under the “related crimes” provision.
What Happens After You Receive a U Visa?
After you are granted U Visa status, you will receive:
Legal authorization to remain in the U.S.
Eligibility to apply for a work permit
Protection from deportation
Eligibility to include certain family members (such as your spouse, children, or, if you are under 21, parents and unmarried siblings under 18)
After holding a U Visa for three continuous years, you become eligible to self-petition for lawful permanent residency (green card).
Requirements to Adjust Status from U Visa to Green Card
When applying for a green card after three years of U Visa status, you must demonstrate:
Continuous physical presence in the United States for at least three years since receiving the U Visa
Ongoing cooperation with law enforcement (you must not have unreasonably refused to assist in the investigation or prosecution of the crime)
Your continued residence in the U.S. is justified on humanitarian grounds, promotes family unity, or is in the public interest
Once your green card application is filed:
USCIS will extend your U Visa status while your adjustment application is pending
You can apply for or renew your work authorization during this time
The process for a green card decision may take up to two years
Conclusion: Protect Your Future with Expert U Visa Help
If you believe you qualify for a U Visa, or if you are already a recipient and are ready to pursue your green card, Martinez Immigration is here to help.
Our experienced immigration attorney can:
Guide you through the U Visa application process
Help prepare and strengthen your cooperation documentation
Support your green card adjustment when you become eligible
Contact Martinez Immigration today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the compassionate, knowledgeable representation you deserve.
