The U Visa was created to assist immigrants who are victims of certain serious crimes who have cooperated with authorities in the prosecution of the perpetrator.
Undocumented immigrants who have met each of the five criteria below may be eligible:
- The victim of one of the following crimes: Abduction, Incest, Rape, Abusive Sexual Contact, Involuntary Servitude, Sexual Assault, Blackmail, Kidnapping, Sexual Exploitation, Domestic Violence, Manslaughter, Slave Trade, Extortion, Murder, Torture, False Imprisonment, Obstruction of Justice, Trafficking, Felonious Assault, Peonage, Unlawful Criminal Restraint, Female Genital Mutilation, Perjury, Witness Tampering, Hostage Prostitution Attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the above crimes; and
- Has suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of one of the above crimes; and
- Has useful information concerning the crime which occurred; and
- Has helped (or is likely to help) in the investigation or prosecution of the crime, and
- The crime committed violated the laws of the United States.
Once the application is approved, the U Visa cannot exceed four years. However, after three years, an immigrant with U Visa status can apply for adjustment of status to receive a green card.
If you believe that you may be eligible for a U Visa, contact Sherris Legal, P.A. for a consultation to determine if you qualify for this type of Visa.
