The U visa, or U nonimmigrant status, provides temporary legal status to victims of qualifying crimes who help law enforcement. It also offers a potential path to lawful permanent residency in the United States. Consult with a U visa lawyer in Chicago if you want to learn more about this status and if you qualify for it.
Mendoza Law gives you access to a legal team with more than 100 years of combined experience. Our humanitarian visa lawyer in Chicago can teach you about the U visa, and if you’re eligible for it, assist you with your application.
We can explain all that the U visa entails and whether this is a viable option for you. For more information, schedule a case evaluation.
Reasons to Partner with a Lawyer if You Want to Apply for a U Visa
Unfortunately, even if you qualify for a U visa, it can be difficult to get the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to approve your application. Your U visa attorney in Chicago knows the challenges that can arise during the application process.
They can help you with your application in several ways, including:
- Gathering police reports, medical records, and other evidence to prove that you are the victim of substantial physical or mental abuse
- Obtaining the required certification from law enforcement to verify that you were helpful to them
- Offering tips and recommendations on how to craft a personal statement and affidavit that highlight how you comply with all of the U visa requirements
- Filing a waiver of inadmissibility if you have prior immigration violations or a criminal record
- Protecting your confidentiality during the application process without further risk of harm from your abuser
- Making sure that your application materials are complete and accurate
As you search for an immigration lawyer in Chicago, consider what Mendoza Law offers. Our team has served over 100,000 clients. In addition, we’re proud to uphold the rights of immigrants and fight for our clients with great dedication. Allow us to represent and advocate for you as you apply for a U visa. Contact us today.
U Visa Requirements That You Need to Know About
The U visa is available to immigrant victims of criminal activity who have suffered severe harm and helped law enforcement with the investigation or prosecution of a crime. Your Chicago U visa lawyer can review the specifics of your situation to determine if you meet USCIS’s eligibility requirements, which include:
- You’re the victim of domestic violence, kidnapping, sexual assault, or another qualifying crime.
- A prosecutor, police department, or government agency has signed Form I-918, Supplement B (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) to certify that you are the victim of criminal activity and were helpful to them.
- You have filed Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) with the USCIS and submitted evidence that shows you are the victim of significant harm.
Don’t wait to apply for the U non-immigrant status, as it can take five years or longer for USCIS to approve your visa request. Speak with a humanitarian visa attorney, and they can help you start the U visa application process immediately.
Why Will the USCIS Deny a U Visa Application in Chicago?
The U visa application process offers no guarantees. If the USCIS has doubts about the validity of your U visa request or you make mistakes on your application, you risk a denial. Ultimately, there are many reasons why the USCIS will reject U visa requests, such as:
- You didn’t receive the required certification from law enforcement.
- You didn’t cooperate with law enforcement during their investigation or prosecution of a crime.
- You have a history of criminal convictions, deportations, or immigration violations.
- You didn’t provide the USCIS with enough evidence.
It’s frustrating to have a U visa request denied, and depending on the circumstances of your situation, deportation is possible. But remember, your Chicago U visa attorney is on your side. Your lawyer knows the U visa is essential for crime victims and can go over your denial letter with you. Next, they may file an appeal or motion to reopen or reconsider.
The Fight Continues for Our U Visa Lawyers in Chicago
Getting a U visa can be a long, arduous process. Thankfully, you don’t have to go through this process alone. Rely on U visa attorneys in Chicago to help you with your application. Your lawyer will confirm that the USCIS has all of the necessary documents to make an informed decision on your U visa request.
At Mendoza Law, our goal is to help our clients achieve the American Dream. The U visa could prove to be a key step as you work toward a better life. If you have concerns or questions about the U visa or are ready to apply for one, we’re here for you. To find out more, request a case evaluation.