U Visa Attorney for Crime Victims in Phoenix, Arizona
The U visa is an immigration protection for victims of certain crimes committed in the United States who have helped, or are willing to help, authorities with the investigation or prosecution of the crime. Attorney Claudia P. López advises victims in Phoenix and throughout Arizona about this process, confidentially and in English or Spanish.
General requirements
In general, the person must show that they:
Were the victim of qualifying criminal activity (for example, domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, human trafficking, extortion or felonious assault, among others).
Suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime.
Have information about the crime.
Have been, are being or are likely to be helpful to the police, prosecutors, a judge or another authority.
The crime occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws.
The person must also be admissible to the United States or request a waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-192).
The law enforcement certification (I-918, Supplement B)
The application requires a certification signed by an authorized agency, such as a local police department, a prosecutor’s office or a judge, confirming that the victim has been helpful in the case. Obtaining this certification is one of the most important steps and can take time.
How the process works
Initial consultation to review the crime, police reports and your immigration history.
Requesting the certification (I-918 Supplement B) from the appropriate agency.
Preparing the petition (Form I-918), personal statement, evidence and, if needed, the I-192 waiver.
USCIS review. By law there is a limit of 10,000 principal U visas per year, so wait times are often long.
Permanent residence: after holding U status for 3 years, the person may be eligible to apply for a green card.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply if I am undocumented or have a deportation order?
In many cases, yes. The U visa was created to protect victims regardless of their immigration status, although past history may require a waiver. If you have an open case in immigration court, see deportation defense.
Can I include my family?
Certain family members may be included as derivatives, such as the spouse and children, and in some cases parents or minor siblings, depending on the victim’s age.
Can I work while I wait?
USCIS may grant a work permit to certain applicants with pending cases, depending on current policies. We will explain what applies to your case.
I was a victim of domestic violence by my U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse. Is there another option?
Yes, you may also consider a petition under VAWA, which does not require a police certification.
Serving Phoenix and all of Arizona
Our office is located at 2323 N 3rd St #203, Phoenix, AZ 85004. We offer phone consultations in English and Spanish.
Official sources
This information is general and is not legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently; every case depends on its own facts.