US U Nonimmigrant Visa Explained: What It Is and Who Qualifies

Key Takeaways

• U visa created in 2000 protects victims of serious crimes willing to assist law enforcement in the US.
• Applicants must prove qualifying crime, substantial abuse, helpfulness to police, admissibility, and provide Form I-918 Supplement B.
• Annual limit of 10,000 principal U visas; family members can get derivative visas without a cap.

The U non-immigrant visa, often called the U visa, is a unique form of immigration relief in the United States 🇺🇸. It was created by Congress in 2000 through the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. The main goal of this visa is to help victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered physical or mental abuse and are willing to help law enforcement with investigations or prosecutions. This visa gives victims a chance to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 legally, work, and eventually apply for a Green Card. If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime and is thinking about applying for a U visa, it’s important to know exactly who qualifies, what the requirements are, and what steps to take if you don’t meet all the criteria right now.

Who Can Qualify for a U Non-Immigrant Visa?

To qualify for a U non-immigrant visa, you must meet all of the following requirements. If you answer “no” to any of these, you may not be eligible, but there are sometimes ways to improve your chances or consider other options.

1. Victim of a Qualifying Crime

You must be a victim of a crime that is on the list of qualifying criminal activities. The crime must have happened in the United States 🇺🇸 or have broken U.S. laws. Some of the most common qualifying crimes include:

• domestic violence
• Sexual assault or rape
• Human trafficking
• Kidnapping
• Stalking
• Extortion
• False imprisonment
• Abusive sexual contact
• Involuntary servitude (being forced to work against your will)
• Murder, manslaughter, felonious assault

There are other crimes that may also qualify. The full list is available on the USCIS U Nonimmigrant Status page.

Example:
Maria was a victim of domestic violence by her partner in the United States 🇺🇸. She reported the abuse to the police, who started an investigation. Because domestic violence is a qualifying crime, Maria meets this requirement.

Disqualifying Factor:
If the crime you suffered is not on the list of qualifying crimes, you cannot get a U visa. For example, being a victim of a minor theft or a non-violent crime that is not listed does not qualify.

2. Suffered Substantial Physical or Mental Abuse

You must have suffered significant physical or mental harm because of the crime. This can include:

• Physical injuries (such as broken bones, bruises, or wounds)
• Emotional trauma (such as anxiety, depression, nightmares, or fear)
• Psychological harm (such as post-traumatic stress disorder)

You do not need to have gone to the hospital or have visible injuries. Emotional or psychological suffering is enough, but you should have some proof, like a letter from a counselor, doctor, or social worker.

Example:
John was kidnapped and, although he was not physically hurt, he now has trouble sleeping and feels scared all the time. His therapist wrote a letter explaining his emotional suffering. This meets the requirement.

Disqualifying Factor:
If you cannot show that you suffered substantial harm, you may not qualify. Minor injuries or emotional effects that are not serious may not be enough.

3. Possess Information About the Crime

You must have information about the crime that happened to you. This means you know what happened and can share details with law enforcement.

• If you are under 16 years old or have a disability that makes it hard to give information, a parent, guardian, or someone called a “next friend” can give the information for you.

Example:
A 14-year-old girl who was a victim of human trafficking can have her mother provide the information to the police if she is too scared or unable to talk about it herself.

Disqualifying Factor:
If you do not know anything about the crime or cannot provide any information, you will not qualify.

4. Helpfulness to Law Enforcement

You must have helped, are helping, or are likely to help law enforcement or prosecutors with the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This can include:

• Reporting the crime to the police
• Giving a statement or testimony
• Cooperating with investigators
• Testifying in court

Law enforcement must confirm your helpfulness by signing a special form called Form I-918, Supplement B, which is a “certification of helpfulness.” Without this signed form, your application cannot move forward.

Example:
After being a victim of sexual assault, Ana reported the crime to the police and answered their questions. The detective signed Form I-918, Supplement B to confirm her cooperation.

Disqualifying Factor:
If you refuse to help law enforcement or do not want to be involved in the investigation, you will not qualify for a U visa. If law enforcement will not sign the certification, you cannot apply.

5. Admissibility to the United States 🇺🇸

You must be “admissible” to the United States 🇺🇸. This means you do not have certain problems that would keep you from entering or staying in the country, such as:

• Serious criminal history
• Certain immigration violations
• Health problems that are a danger to others

If you are not admissible, you may still be able to apply for a waiver using Form I-192. This form asks the government to forgive certain problems so you can still get the U visa. Many people with past immigration issues have successfully received waivers, but it is best to get legal help for this part.

Example:
Carlos entered the United States 🇺🇸 without a visa many years ago and was a victim of felonious assault. He applies for a waiver with Form I-192 to forgive his past immigration violation.

Disqualifying Factor:
If you have certain serious criminal convictions or other problems and cannot get a waiver, you will not be eligible.

Detailed Requirements and Documentation

To apply for a U non-immigrant visa, you need to gather and submit several types of evidence:

• Proof of the crime: Police reports, court documents, or restraining orders
• Proof of harm: Medical records, therapist or counselor letters, photos, or personal statements
• Proof of helpfulness: Signed Form I-918, Supplement B from law enforcement
• Proof of admissibility: Background checks, immigration records, or waiver application if needed

It is important to be honest and provide as much detail as possible. Incomplete or false information can lead to denial.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: File Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
You must fill out and submit Form I-918 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Include all supporting evidence and the signed Supplement B from law enforcement.

Step 2: Obtain Certification from Law Enforcement
Before you submit your application, you need Form I-918, Supplement B signed by a law enforcement agency or prosecutor. This form proves you have helped or are helping with the investigation.

Step 3: USCIS Review and Waiting List
There is a yearly limit of 10,000 U visas for main applicants. If this limit is reached, USCIS will put you on a waiting list. While you wait, you may get “deferred action” or “parole,” which lets you stay in the United States 🇺🇸 and get work authorization.

Step 4: Family Members’ Petitions
Certain family members can get a U visa as “derivatives.” If you are under 21, you can include your spouse, children, parents, and unmarried siblings under 18. If you are 21 or older, you can include your spouse and children. Use Form I-918, Supplement A for each family member.

Step 5: Apply for a Green Card
After three years of continuous presence in U status, you can apply for a Green Card (permanent residency) using Form I-485, if you still meet all requirements.

For Applicants Outside the United States 🇺🇸
If you are outside the United States 🇺🇸, you must first have your Form I-918 approved. Then, you can apply for a U visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. You cannot file your petition directly at the embassy.

Disqualifying Factors

You will not qualify for a U non-immigrant visa if:

• The crime you suffered is not on the qualifying list
• You did not suffer substantial harm
• You cannot provide information about the crime
• You refuse to help law enforcement or cannot get the certification
• You are inadmissible and cannot get a waiver

If you are denied, you may receive a letter explaining why. Sometimes, you can fix the problem (for example, by getting more evidence or applying for a waiver) and reapply.

Alternative Options If Not Eligible

If you do not qualify for a U visa, there may be other options:

• T Visa: For victims of human trafficking who help law enforcement. Learn more at the USCIS T Nonimmigrant Status page.
• VAWA Self-Petition: For victims of domestic violence by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child.
• Asylum: For people who fear harm in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular group.
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status: For children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent.

It is a good idea to talk to an immigration attorney or a trusted legal service provider to see which option is best for your situation.

How to Improve Your Chances

• Report the Crime Quickly: The sooner you report the crime, the easier it is to show you helped law enforcement.
• Cooperate Fully: Answer questions, provide evidence, and stay in touch with investigators or prosecutors.
• Gather Evidence: Keep copies of police reports, medical records, and any letters from counselors or social workers.
• Get Legal Help: The process can be complicated, especially if you need a waiver. Many non-profit organizations and legal aid groups can help for free or at low cost.
• Stay Honest: Always tell the truth on your forms and in your statements. Lying can lead to denial and future immigration problems.

Recent Developments and Policy Updates

As of July 2025, the annual cap of 10,000 principal U visas remains in place. There is no cap for family members. USCIS continues to grant deferred action and work authorization for people waiting for a visa. There have been no major changes to the law in 2024 or 2025, but USCIS has made efforts to be more open about processing times and to help law enforcement agencies understand the certification process.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, legal experts recommend getting help from an attorney, especially if you have past immigration violations or need a waiver. Advocacy groups are pushing for higher visa caps and faster processing to help more victims.

Practical Implications for Applicants

The U non-immigrant visa is a lifeline for many victims who might otherwise be afraid to come forward. It helps law enforcement solve serious crimes and makes communities safer. The visa also allows families to stay together and build a new life in the United States 🇺🇸. However, the limited number of visas and long wait times can be frustrating. Applicants should be prepared for delays and keep in touch with their legal representatives.

Key Stakeholders and Authorities

• USCIS: Handles U visa applications, reviews evidence, and manages the waiting list.
• Law Enforcement Agencies and Prosecutors: Must sign the certification of helpfulness.
• Immigration Attorneys and Advocacy Groups: Offer legal help and push for better policies.
• U.S. Department of State: Handles visa processing for applicants outside the United States 🇺🇸.

Official Resources

For the most up-to-date information, forms, and instructions, visit the USCIS U Nonimmigrant Status page. You can also contact local law enforcement victim assistance offices or find a trusted immigration legal service provider.

Takeaways and Next Steps

If you think you may qualify for a U non-immigrant visa, start by gathering evidence and reporting the crime to law enforcement. Get the required certification and fill out the correct forms. If you are unsure about any part of the process, seek legal help. Even if you do not qualify right now, there may be other options to help you stay safe and build a future in the United States 🇺🇸.

Remember, the U visa is designed to protect victims and help law enforcement. By understanding the requirements and following the right steps, you can improve your chances of success and find the support you need.

Learn Today

U Non-Immigrant Visa → A visa for crime victims helping law enforcement, allowing legal stay and work in the US.
Form I-918, Supplement B → Official certification by law enforcement confirming a victim’s helpfulness in a criminal investigation.
Admissibility → Eligibility criteria to enter or remain in the US without facing immigration bars.
Waiver (Form I-192) → A legal request to overlook certain disqualifications preventing visa approval.
Derivative Visa → Visa granted to eligible family members of the primary U visa applicant.

This Article in a Nutshell

The U visa offers legal protection and work rights for crime victims aiding US law enforcement. Applicants must meet strict criteria, including proof of abuse and cooperation. Despite long wait times and a 10,000 visa cap, it provides a pathway to permanent residency after three years in status.
— By VisaVerge.com