The U Visa: Protection, Justice, and a Path to a Better Future

For many immigrants, being the victim of a crime is not only traumatic—it can also lead to fear of coming forward, especially if you don’t have legal status. But there’s hope. The U Visa was created to protect victims of certain serious crimes and help them rebuild their lives while cooperating with law enforcement.

At Godoy Law Office, we believe everyone deserves safety and a fair chance to move forward. The U Visa is one way our legal system acknowledges and supports those who have suffered—and had the courage to speak up. A U Visa lawyer near you will help you with this process.

💡 What Is the U Visa?

The U Visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for victims of mental and physical abuse, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, stalking, and other violent offences, and they are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. It offers protection from deportation, the ability to work legally in the U.S., and eventually, a path to a green card.

✅ Benefits of the U Visa:

• Protection from deportation
• Work authorization
• Possible protection for certain family members
• Pathway to permanent residency (green card) after 3 years
• A voice in the justice system without fear of immigration consequences

📝 How Do You Apply?

To qualify for a U Visa, you must:

1. Be the victim of a U visa qualifying crimes that occurred in the U.S.
2. Have suffered physical or emotional harm from the crime.
3. Cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution
4. Obtain a signed certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a law enforcement agency confirming your helpfulness

Once you have the signed certification, your attorney will help you file Form I-918 with all supporting documentation. While U Visas are limited to 10,000 per year, many applicants receive deferred action while waiting, allowing them to stay in the U.S. and apply for work authorization. The U Visa processing time can vary so speaking to an experienced immigration attorney will help you with this process. 

If you or someone you know is the victim of a crime and may qualify for a U Visa, don’t wait to seek help. Our experienced immigration attorneys are ready to guide you through the process with compassion and care.

Call Godoy Law Office today at 630-345-4164 to find out if you’re eligible.

Your safety matters. Your future matters. We’re here for you.

🔎 FAQs to apply for a U Visa

❓ Can I apply for a U Visa if I don’t have legal status?
✅ Yes! The U Visa was created specifically for undocumented immigrants who are victims of crime.

❓ Do I need a police report to apply?
📝 A police report helps, but what’s essential is the signed law enforcement certification (Form I-918, Supplement B).

❓ Can my family apply for a U Visa, too?
👨‍👩‍👧 Yes, in many cases, spouses, children, and even parents may qualify as derivative applicants through the original application.

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