Legal Protection for Victims of Crime
If you were the victim of a crime in New York City and have cooperated with law enforcement, you may be eligible to apply for a U nonimmigrant visa. The U Visa provides protection for individuals who have suffered physical or emotional harm as a result of a qualifying crime and are willing to assist in the investigation or prosecution of that crime. This humanitarian immigration benefit offers victims the chance to live and work legally in the United States and, after three years, apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card).
U Visa Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a U Visa, you must meet the following three criteria:
1. You Were the Victim of a Qualifying Crime
The U Visa is available to victims of certain serious crimes, including but not limited to:
- Domestic Violence
- Sexual Assault or Abuse
- Rape
- Felonious Assault
- Kidnapping
- Human Trafficking
- Incest
- Witness Tampering
- Extortion
- Blackmail
- Abduction
- Murder or Manslaughter
- Forced Labor (Peonage)
- Stalking
- Torture
- Prostitution
- Obstruction of Justice
- False Imprisonment
- Fraud in Foreign Labor Contracting
- Slave Trade
- Hostage Situations
- Involuntary Servitude
- Sexual Exploitation
- Perjury or Unlawful Criminal Restraint
- Female Genital Mutilation
A full list of qualifying crimes can be found under U.S. immigration law, but our team can help you determine if your case qualifies.
2. You Suffered Physical or Emotional Harm
You must show that the crime caused you either physical injury or significant psychological harm. This can be proven with:
- Medical records
- Hospital or clinic reports
- Psychological evaluations
- Mental health treatment records
3. You Cooperated with Law Enforcement
You must demonstrate that you:
- Reported the crime
- Cooperated with police, prosecutors, or the court
- Are willing to assist with an investigation or prosecution
Most importantly, your U Visa petition must include a signed law enforcement certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a police officer, prosecutor, judge, or another qualifying official confirming your helpfulness in the case.
What Are the Benefits of a U Visa?
- Protection from deportation
- Legal authorization to live and work in the U.S.
- Eligibility to apply for a green card after 3 years
- Possible waivers for past immigration or certain criminal violations
- Ability to include certain qualifying family members in your application
We Help Victims Rebuild Safely and Legally
At Khashmati Law, P.C., we know that surviving a crime is traumatic enough. Navigating immigration law shouldn’t be. Our Queens immigration attorneys provide compassionate, confidential support to help you apply for the protection you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a crime in New York, contact us today 516-71-4757 or schedule a consultation online to discuss whether a U Visa is the right option for you. We’re here to listen—and to help.