U Visa
What is U Visa?
U Visa is for Victims of criminal activity such as rape, torture, domestic abuse, sexual assault, prostitution, kidnapping, blackmail, false imprisonment or manslaughter.
Who are Eligible for U Visa?
- Victims of a qualifying crime as listed in INA Section 101(a)(15)(U); and
- Who Suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of the crime; and
- Who possess information concerning the crime; and
- Who have been or are likely to be helpful to authorities in the investigation or prosecution of the crime, where certification from official is required; and
- The underlying crime occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. laws.
What are the Benefits of Applying for U Visa?
- If U visa application is granted, the applicant is eligible to apply for EAD card to work in the US.
- A U visa holder can apply for adjustment of status after 3 years of the approval of U visa and obtain Legal Permanent Residence Status (green card).
- There are 10,000 U visas available per year for qualifying applicants to apply.
- Family members of U visa holders may qualify for status if they can show extreme hardship.
