Am I Eligible for a U Visa as a Crime Victim?
How to Get Immigration Protection and Work Authorization
What Is the U Visa?
The U visa is a special immigration benefit for victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
Its main purpose is to encourage undocumented victims to come forward without fear of deportation. Approved applicants receive temporary lawful status for four years, work authorization, and in some cases, a pathway to a green card.
In 2025, while the number of U visas available each year remains 10,000, the Trump administration has ordered stricter review of police certifications and increased background checks, which can affect processing times.
Benefits of the U Visa
Legal status for four years.
Work authorization for the applicant and certain eligible family members.
Pathway to a green card after three years in U visa status (if other requirements are met).
Protection from deportation while the application is pending.
Who Can Apply for a U Visa?
You may be eligible if:
You are the victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. law.
You have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result.
You have been, are being, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
You have certification from a law enforcement agency, judge, or prosecutor (Form I-918 Supplement B).
You are admissible to the U.S., or you apply for a waiver of inadmissibility using Form I-192.
Qualifying Crimes
Some examples include:
Domestic violence
Sexual assault or exploitation
Rape
Kidnapping
Felonious assault
Trafficking
Stalking
Manslaughter or murder
Obstruction of justice
Witness tampering
(The full USCIS list is more extensive.)
Required Evidence
A strong U visa case typically includes:
Police certification (Form I-918B) confirming your helpfulness.
Personal statement describing the crime and its impact on you.
Police reports and court records.
Medical or mental health records documenting your injuries or trauma.
Proof of relationship for qualifying family members.
Process & Forms
Gather evidence and obtain the police certification.
File Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) with supporting documents.
If inadmissible, include Form I-192 (Waiver of Inadmissibility).
USCIS review, which may involve requests for more evidence.
If approved, receive U visa status, work authorization, and protection from removal.
Limitations & Risks
Only 10,000 U visas are issued each year; others go on a waiting list.
A missing or incomplete police certification will result in denial.
Some criminal or immigration violations may require a waiver.
2025 Policy Updates
Stricter review of law enforcement certifications to confirm ongoing cooperation.
Increased background checks, including review of social media activity.
Requests for more detailed victim impact statements.
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you are a crime victim, the U visa can be a powerful tool to protect your future in the U.S., but success depends on thorough documentation and legal strategy.
📞 Call J. Molina Immigration Law LLC at 860-474-3705 to get experienced, compassionate legal help. Attorney Velez-Molina will prepare your U visa application with the strongest evidence, guide you through each step, and stand by your side until your case is resolved.