Visas for Victims of Criminal Activity. Do I Qualify to Apply?
VISAS FOR VICTIMS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY. DO I QUALIFY TO APPLY?
U.S. immigration law allows foreign nationals who have been victims of certain crimes and granted U nonimmigrant status (U visa) to become lawful permanent residents. In order to qualify to apply for a U-Visa, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says that you must meet the criteria listed below:
1. You are the victim of a qualifying crime.
What types of crimes does the USCIS recognize as qualifying criminal activity? Some of the crimes that permit you to apply for a U-Visa include:
- Blackmail
- Domestic violence
- Extortion
- False imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Murder
- Perjury
- Rape
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Trafficking
You can also view a list of the other qualifying crimes by clicking here or contacting our firm to speak with an immigration attorney in Seattle, WA.
2. You are a victim of physical or mental abuse as a result of criminal activity; and
3. You have information regarding certain criminal activity; and
4. You were, are, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement officials in the investigation or prosecution of a crime; and
5. The crime occurred in the U.S. or was in violation of U.S. laws; and
6. You are admissible to the United States.
USCIS says that if you are not admissible, you can apply for a waiver by submitting Form I-192, Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant.
It is important to note that not all applicants will receive their U-Visa, if you want to increase your chances of USCIS approving your case, you should have an immigration attorney assisting you with the filing process.
How can CCL help you?
Anytime an individual is looking to obtain a visa, green card, or needs to renew the current visa they have, they are always encouraged to retain an experienced lawyer who can help them. The fact is, if you make a mistake on one or more forms, it can delay the process, and USCIS may even reject your application rather than have you correct the mistake and resubmit it. To prevent this from happening, have an immigration attorney help you complete and file all the required forms and required supporting documents so that you can receive a new or renewed visa in a timely manner.
Our firm not only has experience with handling matters pertaining to visas and green cards, but we can assist you with several other types of immigration-related matters. So, to learn more about our firm and how we tailor our services to meet your needs, contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
CCL can be reached at:
2101 Fourth Avenue, Suite 1570,
Seattle, Washington 98121
t: 206-855-3858 | f: 206-971-1650
Source: USCIS.gov