U Visa Lawyer | Veritas Immigration Law
If you have been the victim of a serious crime and have cooperated with law enforcement, you may qualify for a U Visa.
At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we understand the courage it takes to come forward after a traumatic event. Many individuals fear being separated from loved ones or removed from the country, even after helping authorities. We can assess your situation and guide you through the U visa application if you’re eligible.
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At Veritas Immigration Law, we help you navigate U.S. immigration complexities with precision and compassion. Serving Naples and beyond, our dedicated team provides personalized strategies to protect your future.
What Is a U Visa?
A U Visa is a special nonimmigrant visa for victims of certain crimes. If you have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to help law enforcement with the investigation or prosecution, you may be eligible. This visa was created to encourage cooperation with authorities while offering you a path to safety and stability.
If you receive a U Visa, you can stay in the United States for up to four years and may even have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after meeting specific requirements.
Understanding the U Visa Requirements
To qualify for a U Visa, you must meet specific legal requirements established by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These include:
- Victim of a Qualifying Crime: You must have been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity that occurred in the United States or violated U.S. law.
- Substantial Physical or Mental Abuse: You must have suffered significant harm because of the crime.
- Helpful to Law Enforcement: You must have information about the crime and have helped, are helping, or are likely to help authorities in the investigation or prosecution.
- Admissibility: You must be admissible to the United States or apply for a waiver if you are not.
- Credible Evidence: You must provide documentation, such as police reports, witness statements, or medical records, to support your case.
Meeting these requirements is essential for approval. A qualified U Visa lawyer can review your situation, gather evidence, and ensure your petition satisfies all eligibility criteria.
Certain family members — such as spouses, children, or parents — may also qualify for U Visa benefits as derivatives, depending on the age and status of the principal applicant.
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What Crimes Qualify for a U Visa?
Not every crime qualifies, but the list includes many serious offenses that often cause lasting harm. Examples include:
- Domestic violence
- Sexual assault or exploitation
- Human trafficking
- Kidnapping or abduction
- Stalking or harassment
- Extortion or blackmail
- Manslaughter or murder
- Obstruction of justice or witness tampering
Even if the specific crime you experienced is not listed, you may still be eligible if it is similar in nature and meets the criteria set by USCIS.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late. Request a
Consultation Today!
The U Visa Application: Step By Step
The process involves several steps, each requiring careful preparation and supporting documentation:
Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B)
You’ll need to obtain a signed certification from a law enforcement agency confirming that you were helpful or are likely to be helpful in the case.
Personal Statement
A U visa lawyer can help you write a personal statement describing the events of the crime, the harm you experienced, and how you assisted in the investigation.
Supporting Evidence
Your U visa lawyer will help you obtain supporting evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, or psychological evaluations to demonstrate the abuse or trauma you suffered.
Waiver of Inadmissibility (Form I-192)
Some applicants may need to request a waiver for past immigration or criminal issues before approval.
Working with an experienced U visa lawyer can help reduce delays and ensures that your case is reviewed accurately by USCIS.
How Long Does the U Visa Application Process Take?
Processing times can vary depending on individual circumstances, the availability of evidence, and government backlogs. Having a U visa lawyer manage your case helps keep your documentation organized and your information up to date throughout the process.
Why Choose Veritas Immigration Law for Your U Visa Application
At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we believe every person deserves safety and dignity, regardless of immigration status. Our firm is committed to helping victims of crime rebuild their lives and gain the security they deserve under U.S. immigration law.
If you believe you may qualify for a U Visa, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Veritas Immigration Law today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can assist you in gaining the protection and stability you need.
