Surviving a crime is especially traumatic for undocumented immigrants in the United States. Many victims stay silent out of fear that coming forward will lead to immigration detention rather than justice. Immigration help for U visa applicants is designed to change that—with the guidance of an experienced U visa lawyer, victims can safely pursue justice and legal protection.
What a U Visa Lawyer Wants You to Know
The U nonimmigration visa was established under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000. It’s available to noncitizens who meet certain criteria, including:
- Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a victim of a qualifying crime, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or extortion.
- Have been or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution.
- Possess credible and reliable information about the crime.
Immigration help for U visa applicants is only available to those who are admissible in the United States or who qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility. Contact a U visa lawyer for more information and help completing your application.
If granted a U visa, the USCIS provides legal status for up to four years. Approved applicants also receive work authorization and can apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) after three years.
Understanding the Complex U Visa Application Process
The U visa application process can be legally and emotionally taxing, involving multiple government agencies, including the Department of Justice, USCIS, and even local law enforcement.
Applicants must complete and submit the following:
- Form I-918
- Form I-918 Supplement B
- Evidence of crime and harm
- Waivers of inadmissibility
All of this information must be presented clearly and by strict deadlines and guidelines. This can feel impossible for someone still recovering from trauma or facing language barriers. Contact a U visa lawyer at Lamb & Turner to schedule a consultation today.
How a U Visa Lawyer Provides Immigration Help for U Visa Applicants
One of the biggest challenges for US visa applicants is getting the required law enforcement certification. However, a U visa lawyer can communicate directly with police departments, district attorneys, and federal agencies to advocate for your certification and explain your cooperation in the case.
Visa applications must include a personal statement describing the crime, its impact, and the victim’s cooperation with law enforcement. Many undocumented immigrants fear applying for a US visa because they believe past immigration violations, unlawful entry, or criminal charges will make them ineligible. But a qualified immigration lawyer can argue persuasively for waivers by presenting evidence of rehabilitation, family ties, or hardship.
Skilled U visa lawyers understand how to prepare evidence and complete a convincing application. They can help determine eligibility and ensure every form is filled out correctly without errors or omissions that can delay the process.
U visas allow certain family members, such as spouses, children, parents, or siblings, to be included as derivatives. Your immigration lawyer can help ensure your loved ones are properly added to your case with adequate status and work authorization.
Getting the U Visa Application Help You Need
The U visa is a legal benefit and a lifeline. It offers survivors of crime a genuine opportunity to live safely in the United States, rebuild their lives, and ultimately obtain a green card. However, getting there involves a complex process that requires precise documentation and advocacy.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a qualifying crime, don’t stay silent. Help is available. The right legal support from an immigration lawyer at Lamb & Turner is within reach. Contact us today to discuss your case.
