What is a
U Visa?
Complete Guide to the U Visa
Anyone, at any given moment, could be the victim of a crime in the United States. The importance of supporting immigrant victims—whose access to social benefits is severely limited—led to the creation of paths towards legal protection such as the U nonimmigrant status, also known as the U Visa.
The U Visa offers a route of immigration relief to people who have been the victims of certain crimes: it allows them to reach legal status within the country and obtain immigration benefits with which to build a safe future.
The U Visa application process is challenging and emotionally overwhelming, which is why the support of an experienced U Visa immigration attorney, like attorney Angel Lisinski, could make a significant impact on your case.
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Humanitarian Immigration Lawyer
At the Lisinski Law Firm, we are dedicated to humanitarian cases such as the U Visa, the T Visa, and VAWA, because our mission is to change as many lives as possible, and these cases allow us to help many people build a safe future in the U.S. with papers in hand. The U Visa application process, as in the other humanitarian cases, happens entirely within the United States—that is why it is among our favorite cases.
More than being experienced U Visa attorneys, our legal team looks for the best way to help immigrant victims of crimes within the country, especially those who might have negative things on their record. We know that many come to the United States searching for better opportunities and, as a result, could have illegal entries, prior deportations, border apprehensions, among other consequences. Thinking that they don’t have any options to fix due to their immigration history, they are not aware that they could qualify for the U Visa if they were the victims of certain crimes and cooperated with law enforcement. As trusted immigration lawyers, we review each client’s declaration in detail to identify the situations that meet the U Visa requirements. Even if a case appears difficult, we do not give up—we fight for justice and the dignity of all victims.
The main cases that we handle at the firm are:
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VAWA
Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), it is possible to fix papers based on certain problems in the relationship with a citizen or resident spouse (or ex-spouse), or citizen child of legal age.
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U Visa
Visa for victims of certain crimes committed within the U.S. such as theft, assault, extortion, domestic violence, among others—as long as there is a police report about what happened.
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T Visa
Visa for the victims of certain types of mistreatment at work, at home, or by a coyote upon entry to the United States.
- Humanitarian Immigration Lawyer
- U Visa Requirements and Processing Time
- Qualifying Crimes for a U Visa
- Why Victims Should Not Be Afraid to Come Forward
- Benefits of a U Visa
- Difference between U Visa and T Visa
- The Importance of Legal Assistance
- Can You Include Family Members?
- What Kind of Documentation May Be Required in a U Visa Case?
- Step-by-Step Guide to the U Visa Application Process
- Need an Immigration Attorney Near You?
- Frequently Asked Questions About U Visa
Book an appointment to find out if you qualify!
U Visa Requirements and Processing Time
To meet the U Visa requirements, the applicant must:
- Prove that they were a victim of a qualifying crime within the United States and suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result.
- Cooperate or show willingness to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the investigation of the qualifying crime.
- Be admissible to the U.S. or obtain a waiver through form I-192.
Contact an experienced U Visa immigration attorney who can evaluate the details of your situation and align them with the previous points.
In general, U Visa processing times could range between years, depending on each case, but in certain situations it is possible to obtain immigration benefits while waiting for final approval. Your trusted immigration lawyer may give you a more accurate estimate regarding processing times, although you should keep in mind that recent changes in immigration proceedings affect the overall process as well. With varying U Visa approval rates and new executive orders, knowing how long each case would take usually depends on the workload at USCIS at the time of filing your application.
Learn more about U Visa processing times!
Qualifying Crimes for a U Visa
The qualifying crimes for a U Visa generally include certain serious offenses such as severe forms of violence, exploitation, coercion, or other criminal acts that result in significant harm.
Examples of qualifying criminal activity: human trafficking, domestic violence, aggravated assault, sexual misconduct, unlawful restraint, and other related offenses. The attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the above-mentioned crimes may also count as a qualifying crime for a U Visa.
If you were the victim of one of these crimes, it does not automatically mean that you qualify for a U Visa. Contact an immigration lawyer with experience in these cases to confirm whether you meet the U Visa requirements.
Why Victims Should Not Be Afraid to Come Forward
We understand that cooperating with law enforcement might seem intimidating. However, the U Visa was created to protect victims, not punish them for their immigration status, so you can rest assured that assisting with police investigations will not automatically lead to deportation. Your immigration status is protected under U Visa provisions, and reporting crimes can help make communities safer while offering you protection, stability, and a pathway to legal status.
At Lisinski Law Firm, our trusted U Visa immigration attorneys will always prioritize your safety.
Benefits of a U Visa
You could improve your quality of life with documents in hand. The main U Visa benefits include:
- Protection from deportation — you may receive protection from deportation even while your case is pending. Once the U Visa is granted, you will obtain lawful status in the U.S. for up to four years.
- Work authorization — upon approval, you will be automatically eligible for a work permit. In some cases, USCIS can provide employment authorization to U Visa petitioners still waiting for adjustment of status through the bona fide determination process. This enables crime victims to have financial stability while they cooperate with law enforcement during the investigation.
- Family benefits — certain relatives may be included as derivatives in your U Visa application, granting them access to the same benefits if approved. An experienced U Visa immigration lawyer can guide you through eligibility requirements for adding family members.
- Path to a Green Card — you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency after 3 years of being with a U Visa status.
- Support for law enforcement — by cooperating with active investigations, you will not only help strengthen criminal cases but also contribute to making the community safer.
- Access to certain benefits — U Visa applicants are eligible for certain public benefits such as victim services, counseling, health coverage, education, social service programs, food stamps, and driver’s licenses. Access to public benefits varies by state.
Difference between U Visa and T Visa
Both the U Visa and the T Visa are humanitarian cases we use at Lisinski Law Firm to help victims of certain crimes obtain legal status within the country. The main difference between these cases is the type of crime: while the T Visa may be available for people who have endured certain harmful or exploitative circumstances related to mistreatment, the U Visa applies to victims of other serious crimes committed within the United States.
If you were a victim of certain crimes within the United States, such as assault, theft, or extortion, among others, you could qualify for the U Visa. However, this case requires a police report documenting what happened, as supporting evidence of your willingness to assist in the investigation of these crimes.
Both visas offer a strong waiver for negative things on your immigration history, such as illegal entries, prior deportations, and even certain felonies on your criminal record.
The Importance of Legal Assistance
We understand how difficult it can be to endure the harm caused by a serious crime. We recognize the courage it takes to share your story—especially in immigration proceedings and in cooperation with law enforcement. The U Visa application is complex and demanding, and success often depends on the smallest details. That is why our priority is to make the process clear and transparent, supporting you every step of the way.
When it comes to such complex cases, the best way to prepare for success is to have the support of an experienced U Visa immigration attorney who ensures that the petition is filed correctly, with the evidence and forms aligned with USCIS standards.
Above all, a trusted U Visa attorney will defend the client’s rights during the entire process and will guide them towards a safe future within the United States.
Can You Include Family Members?
Among the most important U Visa benefits is the possibility to include family members as derivatives in your application. According to USCIS, you, as the petitioner, must have your U Visa application approved before your family members can become eligible for their derivative U Visa.
- If you are under 21 years of age, you may include your spouse, children, parents, and unmarried siblings under 18 years of age.
- If you are 21 years of age or older, you may include your spouse and unmarried children only.
Contact the best U Visa lawyer near you for specific guidance on how to include relatives in your U Visa application and which forms you need to file.
What Kind of Documentation May Be Required in a U Visa Case?
An immigration attorney with experience in U Visa cases would most likely tell you to submit the following documentation:
- Form I-918, application for U Nonimmigrant Status.
- Form I-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification, signed by a law enforcement agency as confirmation that you were helpful/ are being helpful to the investigation of criminal activity.
- Personal statement describing the qualifying criminal activity, harm suffered, how you assisted law enforcement, and the impact of the crime on your personal life.
- Evidence of physical or mental abuse, such as medical records, psychological evaluations, police reports, or statements from counselors, social workers, or friends/family.
- Evidence of qualifying criminal activity such as police reports, court records, restraining orders, or other law enforcement documents, and evidence showing the crime occurred within the United States.
get started on your U Visa application!
Step-by-Step Guide to the U Visa Application Process
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Step 1: Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
- Your attorney will review your situation to confirm eligibility and assess available evidence.
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Step 2: Law Enforcement Certification
- Through your trusted U Visa attorney, the appropriate law enforcement agency will provide a signed Form I-918, Supplement B, confirming your cooperation in the investigation of the qualifying crime.
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Step 3: Submit Form I-918
- Complete and submit Form I-918 to USCIS.
- Provide supporting documents and your personal statement describing the qualifying crime and its impact.
- If advised by your attorney, Form I-192 can be filed to request a waiver of inadmissibility.
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Step 4: Wait for a Decision from USCIS
- USCIS will review your petition and may notify you if additional documentation is needed.
- If approved, you may become eligible to receive a work permit automatically.
- An experienced immigration attorney could outline an alternative path to receiving employment authorization while waiting for a final decision.
- If denied, there may be options to appeal, depending on your case.
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Step 5: Derivative Family Members
- If your U Visa case is approved, your lawyer will guide you through the process of including relatives in your U Visa application.
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Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residence (Green Card)
- After 3 years of U Visa status, you may be eligible to apply for a Green Card.
Need an Immigration Attorney Near You?
At the Lisinski Law Firm, we have a proven track record winning U Visa cases for many people who have lost all hope of fixing papers. Our legal team dedicated to difficult cases actively looks for all potential options to obtain documents 100% within the United States — that is why we are proud to have so many success stories and lives changed by our work.
We have helped many families stay together through the U Visa. With multiple office locations nationwide and channels of virtual immigration support, we are ready to guide you towards legal status.
Call us and find out if you qualify for the U Visa!
Frequently Asked Questions About U Visa
Who qualifies for a U Visa?
Victims of certain qualifying crimes that occurred in the United States, suffered substantial physical or mental abuse, and have cooperated (or are willing to cooperate) with law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime.
Can I apply for a U Visa if I am undocumented?
Yes. Undocumented individuals may apply for a U Visa if its requirements are met.
How long does it take to get a U Visa?
Processing times vary, but it often takes several years due to high demand and limited visa availability. Applicants may receive deferred action and work authorization while waiting.
Is there a limit to how many U Visas are approved each year?
Yes. Federal law limits USCIS to approving 10,000 U Visas per year for principal applicants. Eligible family members are not counted toward this cap.
Can a U Visa be denied?
Yes. A U Visa may be denied if eligibility requirements are not met, documentation is incomplete, or there are serious criminal or immigration issues that cannot be waived.
Can I reapply if my U Visa is denied?
In some cases, yes. You may be able to reapply or file a motion to reopen or reconsider if new evidence becomes available or if errors occurred in the initial review.
What if I have a criminal record or immigration violations?
Having a criminal record or prior immigration violations does not automatically make you ineligible. You may request a waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-192) as part of your U Visa application. An experienced U Visa attorney will assess your situation and guide you through this process.
Does a U Visa provide a path to a Green Card or citizenship?
Yes. After maintaining U Visa status for three years, you may be eligible to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence). Later, you may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Can U Visa holders get a driver’s license or public benefits?
In many states, U Visa holders can obtain a driver’s license and may qualify for certain state or local public benefits. Eligibility depends on state laws and specific benefit programs.
How long does U Visa status last?
U Visa status is valid for four years and can be extended in certain circumstances, such as ongoing law enforcement needs or delays in obtaining a green card.
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Why choose us?
Client-Centered
High Success Rates
Nationwide Clients
For immigration representation, we can serve anyone within the United States as a matter of Federal law. In fact, many of our clients are in other states, so we have plenty of experience working closely with clients from long distances. Our client service team is available day or night to meet with clients by phone or other virtual means, no matter what state you may be located in.
Available & Reliable
- Hours of In-Person Operation:Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Extended Support Hours: 24/7 legal team at your service.
Client-Centered
High Success Rates
Nationwide Clients
For immigration representation, we can serve anyone within the United States as a matter of Federal law. In fact, many of our clients are in other states, so we have plenty of experience working closely with clients from long distances. Our client service team is available day or night to meet with clients by phone or other virtual means, no matter what state you may be located in.
Available & Reliable
- Hours of In-Person Operation: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Extended Support Hours: 24/7 legal team at your service.
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