Victims of certain crimes or those who have valuable information about a criminal act You can apply for a U visaone of many granted by United States Government. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets out a series of specific requirements that must be met before an application can be submitted.
USCIS explains that “nonimmigrant U status (U visa) is intended for victims of certain crimes who have suffered physical or mental abuse and are providing assistance to law enforcement agencies and government officials in investigating or prosecuting criminal activity.”
He adds, “Congress created this visa by passing the Trafficking and Violence Victims Protection Act (including the Abused Immigrant Women Protection Act) in October 2000. This legislation aims to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, alien trafficking and other crimes.”
The information highlights that the U visa also protects crime victims who have suffered mental or physical abuse as a result of said crimes and are willing to assist authorities in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity.
As is the case with others Non-immigrant visasIn this case, the interested party must complete the form I-918. But since it is a special case related to criminal activities, an officer from the law enforcement agency must confirm the status using Appendix B of the form mentioned above.
Another special requirement for a U visa is that the applicant must provide evidence proving that he or she meets the requirements to obtain it.
If a person living outside the United States notifies USCIS, they must submit the form and documents to USCIS Vermont Service Centerwhere you will receive instructions including having your fingerprints taken at Consulate or embassy Nearest American.
We remember that, in any case, USCIS suggests that petitioners open a personal account on the website of that government agency.
In any case you are applying for a visa or green card, you can request to reschedule your appointment through your online account at USCIS. Or by calling the USCIS Call Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833).
If the U visa application is approved, the applicant must follow consular procedures to enter the United States, which will include an interview with a consular affairs officer at the embassy or consulate.
Another essential aspect of this visa is Applicant safety. Therefore, USCIS highlights that “If you do not feel safe receiving USCIS mail at your home, you may include a secure address in the mailing address field of your application. You do not have to live at the secure address for USCIS to send correspondence to you.”
He adds, “Any information about you or your U visa application is strictly confidential and protected by law. DHS can only share this information in very limited circumstances and cannot deny your application based solely on evidence provided by your abuser or other prohibited sources.”
The list of crimes that allow you to apply for a U visa is very extensive. Here we highlight some of them:
You can request to reschedule your appointment through your online USCIS account or by calling the USCIS Call Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833).