U Visa (Crime Victims)
Status and a green card path for victims of serious crimes who help law enforcement.
Overview
The U visa protects victims of qualifying crimes — domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, trafficking, and more — who suffered substantial abuse and have been, are being, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement. The linchpin is the I-918B certification. The category is capped at 10,000 per year with a bona fide determination waitlist.
Who May Qualify
- Victim of a qualifying crime in the U.S. or violating U.S. law
- Substantial physical or mental abuse
- Helpfulness to law enforcement, certified on Form I-918B
- Admissibility or the broad U-visa waiver (I-192)
How We Help
- Certification advocacy with law enforcement agencies
- I-918 petitions with abuse and helpfulness evidence
- Derivative filings for spouses, children, and qualifying family
- Bona fide determination work permits; I-485 adjustment after three years
Frequently Asked Questions
The police never arrested anyone — can I still qualify?
Yes. Prosecution is not required — your helpfulness in the investigation is what counts.
I have immigration violations — am I barred?
The U visa waiver is among the broadest in the law — most grounds can be waived.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page. Immigration law is complex and fact-specific — please consult a qualified immigration attorney about your individual situation.