Q : Can family members of the petitioner apply for U Nonimmigrant status?

While family members who accompany the petitioner can, under certain circumstances, obtain U nonimmigrant status, they cannot apply on their own behalf. The principal petitioner (alien victim) must petition on behalf of qualifying family members who are admissible to the U.S. Family members who qualify depend on the principal petitioner.

• If the principal petitioner is under 21 years of age, they may petition on behalf of:
  • spouses
  • children
  • unmarried siblings under age 18
  • parents
• If the principal petitioner is 21 years of age or older, they may petition on behalf of:
  • spouse
  • children

The principal petitioner would file Form I-918, Supplement A, on behalf of their qualifying family members.