Houston U Visa Lawyers
The U visa is a non-immigrant visa for victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement. This status is temporary, but it is also a vital gateway to legal immigration status that could lead to full United States citizenship with time.
U Visa Eligibility Criteria
The chain of protection starts here. However, eligible applicants must meet strict criteria, including:
- Be a victim of a qualifying crime
- Suffer from mental or physical abuse
- Willing to cooperate
- Able to demonstrate crime violated U.S. law
Eligibility requirements may create additional barriers without comprehensive legal counsel, but they aim to ensure that only those who truly need protection receive the benefits of the U visa program.
Common Qualifying Crimes
Qualifying crimes for U visas that satisfy federal guidelines include:
- Domestic violence
- Sexual assault
- Human trafficking
- False imprisonment
These examples are illustrative, not exhaustive. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies for a U visa, contact Lamb and Turner immigration lawyers for a free consultation.
U Visa Application Process
Applying for a U visa involves several steps. Applicants must report the crime to law enforcement or a qualified official. Then, they must obtain Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status), which also requires gathering supporting evidence.
U visa applicants must then obtain law enforcement certification using Form I-918 Supplement B. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you compile police reports, medical/mental health records, witness statements, and evidence of the crime or your cooperation.
To complete the process, you must submit the completed package to USCIS and await review. Possible Requests for Evidence (RFEs) may follow before the decision. Contact your lawyer for more information.
Working with Law Enforcement Authorities
A critical component is law enforcement certification from a law enforcement agency, which validates your cooperation in a criminal investigation or prosecution. USCIS cannot approve a U visa without it, even if all other conditions are met.
Filing Tips for U Visa Applicants
- Submit early — USCIS caps how many U visas are issued annually.
- Include evidence — Submit reports, letters, affidavits, and other documentation.
- Use tracking — Respond quickly to RFEs and stay updated on your case.
Legal Support for U Visa Applicants
An immigration attorney or a U visa lawyer can help you compile documents, translate where necessary, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies for timely Supplement B certification. Lamb and Turner can also prepare complete, persuasive filings, help track your case, and advocate on your behalf with immigration services.
Why You Need a U Visa Lawyer
The U visa process is complex and sensitive, but a Houston U visa lawyer brings knowledge of local law enforcement processes and prosecutors to help you navigate the steps. You need legal counsel because experience with USCIS adjudicators familiar with Texas U visa filings is essential. Skills to mitigate delays and maximize your chances of success are crucial.
Challenges Faced by Immigrant Communities
Many U visa applicants are members of undocumented immigrant communities, living in constant fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The U visa offers a powerful safeguard against this fear.
Legal Protections Against Deportation
Once granted, a U visa status grants deferred action and work authorization, which shields you from deportation. You may live, work, and rebuild your life without fear of removal.
Family Members and Employment Rights
U visa holders can also bring family members, such as spouses, parents, and children. Furthermore, you may be eligible to apply for a green card after three years of continuous U visa status, which grants full United States citizenship.
How the Trafficking Victims Protection Act Supports U Visa Applicants
The U visa is founded on the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), which recognizes trafficking victims and other serious crime survivors and provides them with a legal avenue of protection. Approved applicants may apply for adjustment of status and obtain a green card if:
- They provide proof of continuous presence in the U.S for at least three years.
- They demonstrate consistent, good moral character.
- They don’t have a criminal record or national security concerns.
Connect with Houston U Visa Lawyers Today
The sooner you reach out, the sooner Lamb and Turner can help secure your safety and security. Contact us now for a free consultation.
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Mr. Lamb is exceptional, he listened to all of our concerns and was very thorough explaining my process on the first consultation. Isela is superb always very attentive and responsive to all my questions. She would always respond in a timely manner to my calls/emails.
Jessica was great updating me with the actions taken against my case via email. Overall a great experience everyone always treated my husband and I as family. Thank you for all you do.
Carla Orona 
Attorney Turner is the best! From our initial consultation to the resolution of our case, she and her team showed genuine commitment. Their expertise, professionalism, and excellent communication skills made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend Lamb and Turner for all your legal matters.
Kanza Fatima
Mr. Lamb is amazing and the best attorney I have ever dealt with . The whole staff truly cares and you are not just a number. I am beyond relieved I have Mr Lamb and his assistant that are a Real team behind me. They will take care and make things right for you!
Tara Geck
This firm is very knowledgeable in every aspect of their practice. Everyone within the firm is passionate about what they do! They live for their WHY! Great experience! I cannot say how thankful I am to have found this firm, they are phenomenal! Best immigration lawyers!
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