The U visa provides protection for victims of serious crimes who assist law enforcement. Created by Congress to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, and other crimes, the U visa recognizes that immigrant victims are often reluctant to come forward due to fear of immigration consequences.
To be eligible, an applicant must:
Have been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity
Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime
Possess information about the criminal activity
Have been, currently be, or be likely to be helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of the crime
The crime must have occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws