Obtaining lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. may be possible for undocumented individuals who have been victims of certain crimes and are willing to assist law enforcement. If you have experienced human trafficking, domestic violence, or the pain of a serious assault, you may qualify for a U-visa. This visa is designed to support victims while helping law enforcement address criminal activity.
A compassionate immigration attorney could help arrange this visa if it is a suitable choice for your circumstances. Our team at Jag Law, PLLC, could work with law enforcement agencies that provide information for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to review and determine your eligibility. If you are an undocumented crime victim, contact our dedicated Palm Bay U-visa lawyer today to discuss your pathway to a green card.
U nonimmigrant status is commonly referred to as a U-visa, which is an incentive for undocumented persons to work with law enforcement to solve their cases when specific crimes have been committed against them.
The USCIS determines whether you are eligible for a U-visa by reviewing the following:
You can still be eligible for a U-visa if the perpetrator is acquitted or convicted of a crime unrelated to the one against you. A legal professional in Palm Bay could help oversee the process and ensure that your U-visa application is thorough, accurate, and supported by the necessary evidence to maximize your chances of approval.
Trying to acclimate to a foreign country is stressful enough, but if you are being exploited, harassed, stalked, trafficked, or harmed, these criminal acts add to your angst. If you are undocumented and willing to aid law enforcement, your help may be the ticket to a green card through a U-visa.
A U-visa provides temporary immigration status and authorizes you to work in the U.S., as well as temporary immigration status for your authorized family members. It is a precursor to lawful permanent resident status if you comply with the USCIS regulations. With temporary legal status, you may feel more inclined to help law enforcement, which benefits everyone. A knowledgeable U-visa lawyer in Palm Bay could explore whether your situation is compatible and discuss your options.
To obtain a U-visa for USCIS to approve, you must submit a signed certification from an official in law enforcement that we can help you obtain. The USCIS Form 1-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification details information about the criminal activity you experienced and includes a law enforcement officer’s statement about your willingness to aid in bringing perpetrators to justice.
The law enforcement agency can be federal, state, or local, including judges and prosecutors who are involved in your case. The USCIS must still approve your visa, pending review of the certification. Your Palm Bay U-visa attorney could coordinate your application and ensure requirements are met.
If you faced harm from a predator or criminal on your journey to the U.S. or have knowledge of criminal activity, you may feel overwhelmed, especially if you are undocumented and unsure of your options. We are here to help guide you through this challenging time with care and understanding.
By cooperating with law enforcement, you may be eligible for a U-visa that could eventually lead to your permanent lawful residence in the U.S. and distance from those who caused your misery. Contact a seasoned Palm Bay U-visa lawyer from our firm today.