The U visa was created by the US Congress thanks to the passage of an important law in October 2000. It is the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, which includes the Abused Immigrant Women Protection Act.
Also known as U-nonimmigrant status, this visa is reserved for people who have suffered physical or mental abuse. In addition, they assist law enforcement and government officials in investigating or prosecuting criminal activity.
This improves law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute domestic violence cases. Cases to which are added other crimes such as sexual abuse and foreign trade.
So who gets U nonimmigrant status?
It is primarily received by victims of a qualifying crime or those who suffer physical or mental abuse as a result of a crime. In this case, the offense could have been committed in the United States or violate the laws of the country.
It is also given to those who have information about criminal activities. If you are under 16 or have a disability, your parent or guardian may have the information on your behalf.
Those who have helped or are helping police institutions to investigate or prosecute the crime also apply.
This visa entitles you to enter the country. Otherwise, an exemption may be requested using Form I-192, Application for Prior Entry Authorization as a Nonimmigrant.
To apply for U nonimmigrant status, Form I-918, Application for U Nonimmigrant Status, must be completed. Here, it is important to know that if there are any ineligibility issues, a form must be submitted to request a waiver of U nonimmigrant status based on ineligibility reason. We’re talking about Form I-192, Application for Prior Entry Authorization as a Nonimmigrant.
To request this, you must also submit a personal statement describing the criminal activity of which you have been the victim. In addition, evidence that proves the individual admission requirements.