U-Visa for Crime Victims

The U visa provides immigration status to victims of certain crimes who cooperate with law enforcement.

Qualifying Crimes

• Domestic violence, sexual assault
• Human trafficking
• Kidnapping, extortion
• Forced labor
• Serious bodily injury
• Murder (for family members of the victim)

Requirements

• You were a victim of a qualifying crime
• You have information about the crime
• You are cooperating with law enforcement
• The crime occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws

The U visa is filed using Form I-918.

Key Document — Form I-918B

Supplement B is a certification from a law enforcement agency (police, prosecutor, judge) confirming your cooperation. This is a mandatory document.

Other Documents

• Personal statement about the crime
• Evidence of the crime (police reports, medical records)
• Evidence of harm (physical or mental abuse)
• Form I-918A for family members

Filing fee: free of charge.

The U visa has an annual cap of 10,000 visas per year, which creates a significant backlog.

Bona Fide Determination

While a petition is pending, USCIS may issue a bona fide determination — an interim status that provides:

• Protection from deportation (deferred action)
• Work authorization (EAD)

After Receiving the U Visa

• The U visa is granted for 4 years
• After 3 years, you may apply for a green card
• Continuous physical presence in the United States is required