U-Visas
The U-visa provides immigration relief to victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered substantial harm and who help — or are willing to help — law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of that crime.
U-visa status can offer a path to lawful status and, eventually, to a green card, while encouraging crime victims to come forward and cooperate with authorities.
Ahmad & Associates helps crime victims assemble the documentation a U-visa requires, including the law-enforcement certification, and guides them through a process that can take time but offers meaningful protection.
Who may qualify
A U-visa has several core requirements. In general, an applicant must show that they:
01 · Victim of a qualifying crime
Such as domestic violence, felonious assault, trafficking, sexual abuse, and certain other offenses.
02 · Suffered substantial harm
Physical or mental abuse resulting from being a victim of the crime.
03 · Helpful to law enforcement
Possess information about the crime and assist (or are willing to assist) in its investigation or prosecution.
04 · Law-enforcement certification
Obtain a certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) confirming helpfulness.
What U-visa relief can provide
For approved applicants, the U-visa can offer significant benefits:
- Lawful nonimmigrant status for a period of years
- Work authorization
- Protection while assisting law enforcement
- Certain family members may qualify for derivative status
- A potential path to a green card for those who remain eligible
Frequently asked questions
Ready to discuss your immigration matter?
Schedule a confidential consultation with Ahmad & Associates. We assist clients throughout Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania, and represent clients nationwide before federal immigration courts. Multilingual assistance is available.
8000 Westpark Drive, Suite 630, McLean, VA 22102