U-Visa Application Step-By-Step Guide
The U-Visa is a crucial immigration benefit that provides protection and legal status to undocumented immigrants who are victims of certain crimes in the United States. If you have been a victim of a qualifying crime and wish to apply for a U-Visa, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the application process, helping you understand the necessary requirements and documents needed for a successful application.
1. Determine Eligibility for U-Visa Application
The first step in U-Visa Application Step-By-Step Guide is to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must be a victim of a qualifying crime, have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime, be willing to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of the crime, and be admissible to the United States or qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility.
2. Gather Supporting Documents
Once you establish your eligibility, gather all the necessary supporting documents. These may include a personal statement describing the crime and its impact, police reports, medical records, affidavits from witnesses or healthcare professionals, and a completed law enforcement certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) confirming your cooperation with authorities.
3. Complete Form I-918 U-Visa Application
The main form for a U-Visa Application Step-By-Step Guiden is Form I-918, Petition for U Non-immigrant Status. Carefully fill out the form, providing accurate and honest information. If you are under 21 and have family members who qualify for a derivative U-Visa, complete Form I-918, Supplement A, for each eligible family member.
4. Seek Law Enforcement Certification
Contact the law enforcement agency or authorities involved in the investigation of the crime and request the completion of Form I-918, Supplement B. This certification is essential to demonstrate your cooperation in the criminal case and should be submitted with your U-Visa application.
5. File the U-Visa Application
Compile all your documents and mail your completed U-Visa application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Remember to include the required filing fee and any additional forms or waivers, if applicable.
6. Await USCIS Decision
After submitting your U-Visa application, you must wait for USCIS to process your case. The processing time may vary, but during this period, you can check the status of your application on the USCIS website using the receipt number provided upon submission.
7. Apply for Work Authorization
If your U-Visa petition is approved, you may be eligible to apply for work authorization (Form I-765). This will allow you to legally work in the United States while you wait for your U-Visa to become available.
8. Adjust Your Status (Optional)
After being granted U nonimmigrant status, you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency (green card) after three years of continuous presence in the United States under U-Visa status. This step is optional but provides an opportunity for more permanent residency in the country.
Contact Us Today
The process of securing a U-Visa is complex and detailed, offering an essential lifeline for victims of specified crimes to receive protection and legal status within the United States. It’s a pathway where the expertise of ELR Abogados de Inmigración – Immigration Law can play a crucial role. With Erika Roman at the helm, our firm ensures that this intricate journey becomes less intimidating. We provide all necessary support and resources required in the pursuit of a U-Visa, offering a chance to reconstruct your life post a distressing event. Contact us at +1 (818) 900-5707 for comprehensive and compassionate immigration legal services.
