Serving Your Immigration Needs in Marion & Polk Counties, OR
The U Visa is a special non-immigrant visa category for victims of certain crimes who:
Have suffered mental or physical abuse, and
Are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in investigating or prosecuting criminal activities.
This visa was established to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, and other crimes while protecting victims who have suffered substantial harm due to criminal activity.
At Affordable Immigration, we understand the eligibility requirements and U Visa application process. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable assistance to crime victims seeking protection and legal status.
We can guide you through every step, help compile the necessary evidence, and meet the required deadlines. Our attorney can advocate on your behalf to law enforcement and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), striving to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Book a free initial consultation with our Salem U Visa attorney at Affordable Immigration. Call (503) 676-3991 or use our online contact form. Hablamos español.
Who Is Eligible for a U Visa?
To qualify for a U Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
Being a victim of a qualifying criminal activity.
Suffering substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.
Possessing information about the criminal activity.
Being helpful, having been helpful, or is likely to be beneficial to law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime.
The crime occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws.
Qualifying family members such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings may also be eligible to apply for derivative U Visas.
Qualifying Crimes for a U Visa
The U Visa is specifically designated for victims of certain crimes that have caused substantial physical or mental abuse and that fall under a list of qualifying criminal activities.
These include, but are not limited to:
Domestic violence
Sexual assault
Human trafficking
Kidnapping
False Imprisonment
Blackmail
Torture
Involuntary servitude
Slave trade
Any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit one of these crimes may also qualify. The broad spectrum of qualifying crimes reinforces the visa’s role in protecting those victims while promoting cooperation with law enforcement to enhance public safety and uphold justice.
“I was a stranger, and you took me in… then the righteous answered him, saying Lord… when saw we thee a stranger and took thee in?
Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done it to the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
- Matthew 25:36-40
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The process for obtaining a U Visa involves several essential steps:
Filing Form I-918: Applicants must submit Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, and personal statements and supporting documentation demonstrating eligibility.
Obtaining a law enforcement certification: Part of the application involves acquiring a certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a law enforcement agency attesting to the applicant’s helpfulness in investigating or prosecuting the crime.
Providing evidence of suffering: Documentation establishing the extent of the victim’s physical or mental suffering is crucial for the application.
Submitting eligibility evidence: Additional evidence must be presented that establishes the applicant’s relationship to the qualifying criminal activity and their helpfulness to law enforcement.
This complex process requires thorough documentation, adherence to legal procedures, and efficient coordination with law enforcement and legal advocates.
Additional Potential Benefits When Applying for U Visas
When applying for a U Visa, you may also seek related benefits that support your immigration journey and integration into the community. This includes applying for work authorization, which grants the ability to engage in lawful employment while awaiting a decision on the U Visa application.
Additionally, individuals granted U Visa status can apply for green cards after meeting specific requirements, such as maintaining U Visa status for three years and demonstrating continued cooperation with law enforcement. This path offers a long-term solution for those wishing to establish their lives permanently in the United States.
Furthermore, qualifying family members who receive derivative U Visas can also apply for work authorization and eventual adjustment of status, creating family unity and collective access to opportunities.
Annual Caps on U Visas
The U Visa program is subject to an annual cap, which limits the number of U Visas issued each fiscal year to 10,000 principal applicants. This cap does not include derivative family members who may also be eligible under the primary applicant’s visa.
Due to the high demand and limited number of visas available, reaching this cap frequently results in a waiting list, causing delays in processing times and visa issuance for eligible applicants.
Victims of qualifying crimes and their families must apply as soon as possible to secure their place in the queue. While waiting, applicants may be granted deferred action, allowing them to remain lawfully in the U.S. and potentially work while waiting for final adjudication.
The capped nature of this visa category emphasizes the importance of timely and precise application submissions and understanding the legal steps in navigating potential waiting periods.
Obtaining a U Visa offers several significant advantages.
Temporary legal status and protection from deportation
Work authorization, allowing you to pursue employment opportunities lawfully
Potential public benefits and resources to aid your recovery and adjustment
Eligibility for a green card after three years
How Affordable Immigration Can Assist You in Salem & Surrounding Counties
Our firm provides comprehensive legal support and guidance throughout the entire application process. We understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in U Visa cases and are here to offer the emotional support you need at this critical time. Attorney Steve Miller is part of the Marion County Human Trafficking team, helping those who have endured these crimes by working with law enforcement in their cases.
Our team has extensive experience handling U Visa cases, allowing us to navigate the specific requirements and eligibility criteria skillfully. We can help gather essential evidence to substantiate your claim, including working closely with law enforcement agencies to secure the necessary certification.
We are also adept at addressing any challenges that may arise and providing solutions and strategies to overcome potential obstacles in the application process. Our goal is to assist you in achieving safety, stability, and the opportunity for a better future.
Call (503) 676-3991 or email us via our contact form to discuss your case with our Salem U Visa attorney today.
