The US offers several humanitarian visas for immigrants who have experienced undue hardships. One of these is the U visa program. If you’ve been the victim of certain violent crimes, you may be eligible for legal immigrant status by obtaining a U visa. Once you have your U visa, you may be able to apply for legal permanent residence.
The Jacksonville humanitarian visa lawyers from Mendoza Law can help immigrants apply for their U visa and resolve related legal issues. Our team has over 100 years of combined legal experience and has assisted countless immigrants with their legal issues.
Contact our offices today to speak to a U visa lawyer in Jacksonville.
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help
The US’s immigration system is notoriously complex and opaque. Without the requisite legal knowledge, it can be incredibly difficult to navigate the various channels to secure your legal status. Small mistakes could delay proceedings and jeopardize your ability to enter or stay in the country.
A Jacksonville immigration lawyer from Mendoza Law can be your advocate for any and all legal immigration matters. We can help you organize your documentation, file forms, and represent you during immigration proceedings and hearings.
As the child of immigrant parents, lead attorney Maria Mendoza has firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing immigrants and their families. Let us help you find peace and stability so you can focus on building your life here.
What is the U Visa Program?
The U visa program is a special visa program meant to assist immigrants who have been victims of certain violent crimes and who help law enforcement investigate or prosecute illegal activity.
With a U visa, you can stay in the country for up to four years. In most cases, you may apply for permanent residency (also known as a Green Card) after being physically present in the U.S. for three years.
The U visa program was created in 2000 as part of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. The purpose of the legislation is to help law enforcement tackle organized criminal activity and safeguard the well-being of victims who assist in investigations.
Am I Eligible for a U Visa?
You can be eligible for a non-immigrant U visa if:
- You have been the victim of a qualifying violent crime.
- You possess information relevant to the criminal activity.
- You have been or will be helpful to law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the activity.
- The criminal activity occurred in the US and violated US laws.
- You are otherwise admissible into the US.
In addition to yourself, qualifying family members may also be eligible for a U visa due to their relationship with you.
The US caps the number of principal U visas that can be granted each year at 10,000. However, the government doesn’t cap the number of derivative visas that can be granted to family members of principal visa holders.
Qualifying Criminal Activities
Qualifying criminal activities include most violent crimes and trafficking, including:
- Assault and abuse
- Blackmail
- Domestic violence
- Extortion
- False imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Involuntary servitude
- Manslaughter
- Prostitution
- Rape
- Sexual abuse
- Torture
- Trafficking
- Witness intimidation
You must also be helpful to law enforcement. “Helpful” means that you have information about criminal activity that could help with investigating or prosecuting the crime. For instance, you can help law enforcement by testifying in court or alerting them to criminal activity.
Applying for a U Nonimmigrant Visa
The first step in applying for a U visa is filling out Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status.
When submitting the form, you must also submit a supplemental form describing your activity in helping law enforcement. This supplement must be authorized by the relevant law enforcement agency.
In addition to these forms, you must provide evidence that you are admissible into the United States. You don’t have to fill out a U visa application in the US; you can submit it at your nearest US Embassy.
Can I Extend My U Visa?
A U visa is typically valid for four years after issuance. However, you can extend a U visa in certain circumstances. If law enforcement requires more assistance from you, they can request that you receive an extension.
You may also be able to secure a U visa extension if there are exceptional circumstances that will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. U visas can also be extended while your Green Card application is pending.
Contact a Jacksonville U Visa Lawyer Today
A U visa can provide protection for you and your family, but the application process can be difficult and confusing. Mendoza Law is here to be your immigration advocate and work to ensure your rights are protected and respected. Let us show you why over 100,000 clients have chosen us for legal representation.
Contact our offices online or call us today to discuss your case with a Jacksonville U visa attorney.