REPRESENTING CLIENTS IN ALL 50 STATES AND OUTLYING TERRITORIES OF THE UNITED STATES
Immigration and Nationality Law
U Visa (Victims of Criminal Activity)
The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is intended for victims of crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity. To be eligible, the victim must have information concerning that criminal activity and must have been helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. The criminal activity must have occurred in the United States and violated its laws. Upon approval of the U visa, the principal applicant will automatically be issued a work permit. Also, the foreign national who has held U nonimmigrant status can eventually apply for a green card (Permanent Residence) after 3 years of continuous residence since the date of admission as a U nonimmigrant.
Criminal activities covered include rape, torture, trafficking, incest, domestic violence, sexual assault, abusive sexual contact, prostitution, sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation, being held hostage, peonage, involuntary servitude, slave trade, kidnapping, abduction, unlawful criminal restraint, false imprisonment, blackmail, extortion, manslaughter, murder, felonious assault, witness tampering, obstruction of justice, perjury. Also included are attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the above mentioned crimes and substantially similar crimes.
Certain family members (derivative beneficiaries) may also benefit under the U visa and receive legal status. If the principal petitioner is less than 21 years of age, qualifying family members include her spouse, children, unmarried siblings under 18, and parents. If the principal is 21 or older on the date of application, qualifying members include the spouse and children.
If you have been a victim of criminal activity and believe that you qualify for a U Visa, feel free to contact the Law Office of Carlo Borja so we can assist you in the application process.