The United States is a land of opportunities, including for people who have been victims of crimes. There is a way for these individuals to seek justice and protection through what is known as a U Visa. But what is a U Visa, exactly? In this beginner’s guide, we will walk you through what a U Visa is, how to apply for one, and everything else you need to know.
U Visa: What You Need To Know
A U Visa is a non-immigrant visa that is available to individuals who have been the victims of qualifying crimes in the United States and are helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
This visa provides temporary legal status for up to four years, during which time the individual can apply for permanent legal status.
The U Visa is not available to everyone and there are specific requirements that must be met in order to be eligible for it.
Who Is Eligible for a U Visa?
In order to be eligible for a U Visa, the individual must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime and must have information that could be helpful to law enforcement in the prosecution of the crime.
Additionally, the crime must have occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws.
It is important to note that not all crimes qualify for a U Visa, so it is best to speak with an immigration attorney to get a clear picture of your situation.
How To Apply for a U Visa?
To apply for a U Visa, individuals must first submit a U Visa application (Form I-918) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Along with the application, individuals are required to provide a description of the criminal activity of which they were a victim as well as evidence of their cooperation with law enforcement.
It is important to note that there is a cap of 10,000 U Visas granted per year. However, there is no cap on the number of family members who can derive status from the principal applicant.
In any case, it is best to apply as soon as possible to increase your chances of being awarded the visa.
If a U Visa is granted, you will be given temporary legal status in the United States for up to four years. During this time, you may apply for employment authorization and can work legally in the United States. After three years with a U Visa, individuals may apply for permanent legal status.
Wrapping It Up
A U Visa is a non-immigrant visa that is available to individuals who have been the victims of qualifying crimes in the United States and have been helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This visa provides temporary legal status for up to four years and can lead to permanent legal status.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a qualifying crime, it is important to contact an immigration attorney to determine if a U Visa is an option.
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