U-Visa
“U nonimmigrant visas are set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.” The purpose of the U-Visa is to encourage non-documented aliens to come forward and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in regards to cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking of aliens, felonious assault and other related crimes.
Eligibility for the U-Visa is determined by the following criteria:
- Applicant is the victim of qualifying criminal activity as explained above;
- Applicant has suffered in some way related to this criminal activity, either physically or mentally;
- Applicant has information regarding the criminal activity
- Applicant was helpful or continues to be helpful in assisting law enforcement throughout the investigation or prosecution of the related criminal activity;
- Relevant criminal activity took place within the United States;
- Applicant is admissible to the United States; if applicant is not admissible a waiver is available.
