‍What is a U Visa?

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The U Visa is a humanitarian form of immigration relief for individuals who have been victims of certain crimes in the United States. It was created to protect survivors while also encouraging them to work with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute criminal activity.

Through the U Visa, victims gain protection, work authorization, and a pathway to lawful permanent residence—helping them move forward in safety and stability.

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

You may be eligible for a U Visa if you:

• Have been the victim of a qualifying crime (such as domestic violence, robbery, assault, sexual abuse, stalking, kidnapping, or trafficking)
• Possess information about the crime 
• Have been helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement or government officials in investigating or prosecuting the crime
• Are admissible to the U.S. (or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility)

Qualifying family members may also be eligible to apply as derivatives, ensuring that survivors can protect their loved ones as well.

The U Visa Process

The U Visa process has several steps, the first and most important being law enforcement certification:

1. Certification by Law Enforcement (Form I-918, Supplement B)
   
   • Before applying, a law enforcement agency, prosecutor, judge, or other qualifying authority must sign a certification confirming that the victim has been, is being, or will likely be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
   • Without this certification, a U Visa application cannot move forward. Our firm assists our U visa clients in obtaining certification if needed.
2. Preparing and Filing the U Visa Application
   
   • Once certification is obtained, the U Visa petition is filed with USCIS along with evidence of the crime, proof of harm, and a personal declaration.
3. Work Authorization and Deferred Action
   
   • Given current wait times, many applicants are placed on a waiting list. While waiting, they may receive work authorization and protection from removal.
4. Path to Permanent Residence
   
   • After holding U Visa status for three years, applicants may be eligible to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence).

Benefits of a U Visa

• Four years of lawful status in the U.S.
• Work authorization for the principal applicant and qualifying family members
• Protection from removal
• The ability to apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) after three years in U Visa status
• Access to certain public benefits for survivors of crime

Why Choose Agarwal Law Group for U Visa Cases?

At Agarwal Law Group, we have built a strong reputation for handling humanitarian immigration cases, including U Visas, VAWA, and T Visas. We understand that survivors of crime often carry fear, and we handle every case with skill, compassion, confidentiality, and care.

Our approach includes:

• Guiding clients through the law enforcement certification process, which is a critical first step in every U Visa application
• Preparing detailed affidavits and supporting evidence to present a strong case
• Advocating for clients even in difficult or complex circumstances
• Providing transparency in the process through regular case updates and accessibility

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