Seeking a U visa for crime victims is one of the best immigration options available to this specific group of immigrants. However, you will need to know how to apply for a U visa as well as what this process looks like as of 2025. Like any other immigration pathway, getting immigration relief for domestic violence victims can have its challenges and pitfalls. So, keep reading to find out how to apply for a crime victim green card, what the application process is like, and the eligibility requirements.
What is a U Visa?
The United States has many visas that are available to immigrants in very specific situations. A good example of this is the U visa for crime victims, which allows crime victims to receive a visa and eventually a green card if they cooperate with the criminal investigation.
A U visa provides one of the best immigration pathways for crime victims who wish to seek safety in the U.S. It can be a good option if you do not qualify for other types of visas or want the best option that allows you to eventually obtain a green card.
Besides being able to leave a potentially dangerous situation to immigrate to the U.S., there are many other benefits of getting a U visa. For example, you will get access to a U visa work permit for 2025 as well as a bona fide determination, which provides protection from being deported. After remaining in U status for three continuous years, you will also have the option of applying for a green card.
Who Qualifies for a U Visa in 2025?
The USCIS is known to change eligibility requirements for visas from year to year. Because of this, it is essential that you are up to date before you proceed with applying for a U visa for crime victims.
Obtaining a U visa can be quite challenging as the requirements are very strict. That is why it is strongly recommended that you hire an immigration attorney to ensure you are applying for the right visa and meet all of the eligibility requirements.
Here are the U visa eligibility requirements as of 2025:
- You must be a victim of a U visa qualifying crime, such as trafficking, kidnapping, extortion, domestic violence, or sexual assault.
- You must be able to prove that you sustained significant physical injury or emotional harm.
- You must be in possession of credible information regarding the crime and be willing to share it with law enforcement.
- You must be willing to cooperate with law enforcement and have form I-918, Supplement B, confirming this.
- The crime must violate U.S. law or have taken place in U.S. territory.
Application Process and Key Forms
Now that you know what a U visa is and the requirements, how do you apply for this immigration pathway? Here is the step-by-step process you have to go through when applying for a U visa for crime victims.
Complete Form I-918
The primary application form that you must complete for a U visa is form I-918. When you submit this form, you also need to provide evidence supporting your claim of being a crime victim. Examples of supporting evidence you could provide include things like police reports, court records, a personal statement, and evidence of your cooperation with law enforcement.
Get Law Enforcement Certificate
The next step is to obtain a form I-918, Supplement B, which is law enforcement certification. The purpose of this form is to confirm that you have assisted law enforcement in the criminal investigation or in the prosecution of the criminal charges.
An immigration attorney can help you obtain a law enforcement certification, as this can be a time-consuming process to handle on your own.
Provide Supporting Documentation
In addition to these primary forms and certifications, there are additional documents you need to provide with your application. This includes identification, medical records, proof of your cooperation, and proof of the crime.
It can be challenging to get access to certain types of documentation, which is where an immigration attorney can help. They can help you access harder to find supporting evidence as well as create a strong application.
Keep in mind that providing supporting documentation is not optional; it is absolutely necessary. You must be able to prove that the crime occurred, the type of crime, and the impact it has had on you. Without this type of documentation, the USCIS may request additional evidence, which can significantly delay the process of getting an approval.
In more severe instances, not providing adequate documentation can even result in a denial.
Wait For Approval
After you have submitted all of the necessary documentation, all that is left to do is to wait for the USCIS to review your application and either approve or deny your request for a U visa. Keep in mind that the USCIS has an extensive U visa backlog, which can result in longer wait times. In fact, as of 2025, the processing time for a U visa is approximately 32.7 months.
Hire an Immigration Attorney Today
Are you seeking a U visa for crime victims so that you can legally come to the United States? Contact us today at U.S. Immigration Law Counsel at 800-666-4996 to speak with an immigration attorney about your situation. We will deal with the government, so you don’t have to!
FAQ Section
Can family members be included in a U visa application?
Yes, one of the benefits of a U visa is that a qualifying relative may apply for a derivative U visa. Examples of qualifying relatives include spouses, children, siblings, and parents.
Can I get a work permit while waiting for U visa approval?
Yes, you could be granted work authorization while your case is being processed by the USCIS.
What happens after U visa approval?
You will get access to all of the U visa status benefits and will be able to live in the United States legally. After three years of being in U status, you also have the option of applying for a green card.
