U-Visa
A U-Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for a victim of a qualifying crime who has been or will likely be helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of a crime. A U-Visa grant allows a noncitizen to lawfully live and work in the United States. After three years on U-Visa status, the noncitizen can then apply for legal permanent residency.
A noncitizen is eligible for a U-Visa if they have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of a qualifying crime. As part of the application process, an applicant is required to submit a certification signed by a law enforcement agency outlining the victim’s helpfulness, to law enforcement. There is no requirement that the perpetrator was convicted, prosecuted, or even arrested for the crime at issue. A certification is only the first step in the process. Ultimately, USCIS must review an applicant’s immigration and criminal background to determine whether the U-Visa will be granted.
If you were the victim of a crime in the United States, you may qualify for U-Visa status.