Victim of Criminal Activity (U)

General Visa Information
The U visa classification is available to qualified foreign victims of designated criminal activities who assist with the investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activities.  Individuals self-petition USCIS directly, and U nonimmigrant status is granted by USCIS through an approved petition.  Both U visa principal and derivative petitioners, granted U status, may apply for U visas in Consular Sections overseas. The purpose of the U visa is to give victims of certain crimes temporary legal status and work eligibility in the United States for up to 4 years.

Family Information
Family members may also be included in the petition. If the principal beneficiary is under 21: family members may include spouse, children, unmarried sisters and brothers under 18, and parents, as well as stepparents and adoptive parents, or 21 years of age or older: family members may include spouse and children.
In addition, an applicant who is under 21 years of age can also petition on behalf of a spouse, children, parents and unmarried siblings under age 18.

Visa Specific Required Documents

• I-797 Petition Number
• Original Birth Certificate
• Proof that demonstrates the relationship between the family member and the principal beneficiary (ex. photographs, letters, emails)
• If applicable, Approved I-192 waiver of ineligibilities