U-Visa
The U Visa (U Nonimmigrant Visa) is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and who are helpful in aiding law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
While the number of U visas available each year is capped at 10,000, USCIS has a waiting list for any eligible U Visa petitioner or derivative petitioner. If placed on the waiting list, Petitioners will be granted deferred action and are eligible to apply for work authorization while waiting for additional U visas to become available.
If the victim is inadmissible under any ground found at INA § 212(a), a waiver will need to be filed.
Are you eligible?
You and/or qualifying family members were the victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the United States: https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/victims-human-trafficking-and-other-crimes/victims-criminal-activity-u-nonimmigrant-status
You were helpful to the police or law enforcement.
You were hurt—either physically or mentally—because of the crime.
What Documents are Required for a U Visa?
Form I-918, Supplement B: Law Enforcement Certification
Form I-918, the main form for a U Visa application
Form I-192, (if applicable): Waiver form if you have committed either immigration or criminal violation
Personal Statement: A story of what happened to you in your own words
Cover Letter: send with your application, and
Identity Documents: Documents that show who you are—passport, birth certificate
Other Helpful Documents (not necessary):
Police and/or court records (proving you were the victim of a qualifying crime
Letters from friends & family (discuss the crime and harm you suffered)
Letters from doctors & mental health professionals (help prove you were harmed by the crime)
What happens if my U Visa is Approved?
If your U Visa case is approved, USCIS will grant you U Visa status for 4 years.
After 3 years from your approval date, you will have the right to apply for Lawful Permanent Residency.
