How Our Firm Assists in Securing Your U Visa
Obtaining the U Visa requires complex coordination between our legal team, you, and the law enforcement agency involved in your case. Our experienced attorney focuses on building a successful application while prioritizing your safety and security.
- Confidential case review: We review the details of the crime and your cooperation in a safe, confidential environment to confirm you meet all initial requirements.
- Identifying the qualifying crime: We determine if the crime you experienced falls under the 30-plus qualifying criminal activities recognized by USCIS (such as domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, kidnapping).
- The crucial certification (Form I-918, Supplement B): This is the most vital step. We directly contact the relevant law enforcement agency (police department, sheriff's office, or prosecutor's office) and clearly present your case to secure the required certification that confirms you were a helpful victim.
- Preparing the waiver: If you have any past immigration violations, we prepare and file the necessary waiver to request forgiveness for those issues, removing bars to your eligibility.
- Complete application filing: We prepare the entire Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, organizing and correctly filing all necessary evidence (medical reports, police documents, personal statements).
The U Visa Process: What to Expect
The U Visa process involves several steps and requires the careful submission of evidence to USCIS.
Meet the basic requirements:
- You must be the victim of a qualifying criminal activity.
- You must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.
- You must have information about the crime.
- You must cooperate with the authorities.
Obtain certification: You must successfully obtain a signed Supplement B certification from the law enforcement agency confirming your helpfulness.
File the petition (Form I-918): Our firm files the complete petition package with USCIS. Due to annual limits on U Visas, USCIS often places approved applicants on a waiting list before granting final status.
Receive deferred action (while waiting): If your application is approved while on the waiting list, you may be granted deferred action status. This provides you with protection from deportation and allows you to apply for work authorization.
Grant of U Visa status: Once a visa number becomes available, you will receive U non-immigrant status, valid for a period of four years.
Apply for a Green Card: After three years in a U Visa status, you may apply for lawful permanent residency (Green Card) by demonstrating continued presence and cooperation in the U.S.
Why Legal Representation Is Essential for U Visa Cases
The U Visa process involves a delicate balance of personal trauma, complex immigration law, and inter-agency coordination. You need professional help to navigate this path successfully.
- Securing the certification: This is the biggest hurdle. Law enforcement agencies are not legally required to sign the certification. Our firm knows how to present your case clearly and professionally to persuade the police or prosecutor to provide the necessary signature.
- Handling the trauma and detail: We manage the burden of compiling sensitive evidence and detailing the abuse, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
- Overcoming inadmissibility: Since the U Visa is often sought by individuals with prior immigration issues, you need an attorney to successfully file and argue the necessary waivers to prevent your case from being denied.
- Protecting your rights: We work for fair treatment during your cooperation with authorities and protect your legal rights throughout the entire process.
If you are a crime victim seeking protection and stability, please get in touch with our Orlando law firm today for a confidential consultation. We are here to help you take the proper legal action for immigration.
Contact us online or call (689) 220-3998 for your initial consultation with an Orlando U Visa attorney today.
