U Visa (Crime Victim Visa)

What Is the U Visa?

The U Visa was established in 2000 under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (VTVPA).

It was created to support victims of crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental harm and are willing to cooperate with U.S. law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting criminal offenders.

Examples of crimes that may qualify for a U Visa include:

• Domestic violence,

• Sexual assault,

• Human trafficking,

• Kidnapping,

• Extortion,

• Stalking or harassment,

• Child or spousal abuse.

The U Visa provides victims with the ability to live and work legally in the United States, and after several years, it may lead to lawful permanent residence (a Green Card).

Who Qualifies for the U Visa?

To qualify for U Nonimmigrant Status, an applicant must meet the following requirements:

• Be a victim of a qualifying crime committed in the United States,

• Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse,

• Cooperate actively with law enforcement, prosecutors, or the courts in the investigation or prosecution of the crime,

• Obtain a law enforcement certification — Form I-918, Supplement B, signed by a police department, prosecutor, or other authorized agency,

• Be present in the United States and in need of humanitarian protection.

Family members such as a spouse, children, or, in certain cases, parents, may also be eligible for derivative U status if the principal applicant is approved.

The U Visa Application Process

Applying for a U Visa requires careful preparation and documentation to prove victim status and cooperation with law enforcement.
The general process includes:

1. Obtaining a Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) confirming cooperation.

2. Filing Form I-918 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. Providing supporting evidence such as police reports, medical records, or personal statements describing the harm suffered.

4. Waiting for USCIS review — processing may take time due to annual visa caps.

If no visa numbers are immediately available, the applicant may receive deferred action (temporary protection from deportation) and work authorization until a U Visa becomes available.

How USPassportApplicationOnline.com Helps

While USPassportApplicationOnline.com does not process visa applications or provide legal representation, the website helps users understand the U Visa process and avoid common preparation mistakes.

The platform offers:

• Examples of immigration forms and explanations of how to complete them,

• Information on supporting evidence required for each step,

• Tips for communicating with law enforcement authorities,

• Guidance on preparing a complete and well-organized application package.

These resources allow applicants to approach the process with confidence, better understanding official requirements and timelines.

Benefits of the U Visa

The U Visa not only provides victims with legal protection but also offers an opportunity to rebuild their lives safely in the United States.
Key benefits include:

• Legal authorization to live and work in the U.S.,

• The ability to apply for a Green Card after a few years of continuous presence,

• Protection from deportation,

• Access to support and recovery services,

• The opportunity to include eligible family members in the application.

Conclusion

The U Visa (Crime Victim Visa) is one of the most important humanitarian programs in the U.S. immigration system.
It protects victims of serious crimes while supporting law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting offenders.

Through the educational materials available on USPassportApplicationOnline.com, applicants can better understand the U Visa process, prepare the required documents, and avoid mistakes that might delay their case.

This combination of guidance and clarity helps crime victims rebuild their lives with safety, stability, and dignity in the United States.