The U visa is a nonimmigrant visa given to victims of crime who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse, and who are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution such crimes.
- You may be eligible for nonimmigrant U status if you are an alien and:
- You have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of a crime
- You have information concerning that criminal activity;
- You have been, or are being, or could be, helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime; AND
- The crime violated a law of the United States or occurred in the United States.
You might be eligible for U nonimmigrant status if you suffered substantial physical or mental abuse from any of the following crimes (or other related crimes):
- Abduction
- Abusive Sexual Contact
- Blackmail
- Domestic Violence
- Extortion
- False Imprisonment
- Genital Female Mutilation
- Felonious Assault
- Hostage
- Incest
- Involuntary Servitude
- Kidnapping Manslaughter
- Murder
- Obstruction of Justice
- Peonage
- Perjury
- Prostitution
- Rape
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Exploitation
- Slave Trader
- Torture
- Trafficking
- Witness Tampering
- Unlawful Criminal Restraint
It is important to know that you can still be eligible for a U visa even if you have been ordered removed or deported from the United States. If you were the victim of a crime, you can still get a U visa, but once the U visa is approved you will either need to file a motion to reopen the removal/deportation order with the immigration court, or, if you are about to be ordered removed/deported, you must file for a stay.
There are many factors to take into consideration when applying for U visa. It is best to consult with an immigration attorney before starting an application process.
Root Law Group offers a free legal consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys. Call our office at (323) 456-7600 to schedule your appointment.
