Legal Protection for Victims of Crime
At Khashmati Law, P.C., our experienced U visa attorney helps victims of certain crimes seek lawful immigration status and protection in the United States through U nonimmigrant status. The U visa was created to protect individuals who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of qualifying criminal activity and who have been helpful to law enforcement during the investigation or prosecution of the crime. Based in Queens, New York, our immigration lawyer represents clients throughout New York City and across all 50 states in matters involving U visa applications through USCIS, waivers of inadmissibility, employment authorization, and adjustment of status. Our U visa attorney understands the sensitive and emotional nature of these cases and provides compassionate, confidential, and aggressive legal representation designed to help clients secure protection, work authorization, and a path toward lawful permanent residence in the United States.
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.