U Visa for Immigrants Who Reported a Crime -

If you were a victim of a serious crime and helped law enforcement, you may qualify for a U Visa. Here’s who qualifies, how to apply, and how to stay safe.

This article explains how to apply for a U Visa if you were the victim of a crime and cooperated with law enforcement. It covers eligibility, evidence, benefits, and what to expect during the wait.

DISCLAIMER:

This is not legal advice. Always speak with a qualified immigration attorney or nonprofit before applying. U Visas are for real survivors — filing a false case is a federal crime and damages the process for others.

What Is a U Visa?

A U Visa is for immigrants who:

Were the victim of a serious crime in the U.S.
Suffered physical or mental harm
Reported it or helped law enforcement
Are willing to assist in an investigation or prosecution

If approved, the U Visa gives you:

Legal status in the U.S. for 4 years
A work permit
A path to a green card after 3 years
Protection from deportation during the wait

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

To apply, you must show that:

You were the victim of a qualifying crime (see list below)
You cooperated with police or another law enforcement agency
You suffered substantial physical or mental abuse from the crime
You were helpful, are being helpful, or are willing to be helpful in the investigation

You do not need to testify in court — but you do need law enforcement to sign a certification form (Form I-918B).

Common Qualifying Crimes

(This is Not a full list — but these are the most common)

Domestic violence
Sexual assault
Felony assault
Kidnapping or false imprisonment
Witness tampering
Extortion or blackmail
Stalking
Human trafficking
Involuntary servitude
Other serious violent or coercive crimes

How to Apply

Report the crime to local police or an agency (FBI, ICE, DA’s office, etc.)
Request Form I-918B certification from the agency — this proves you cooperated
File Form I-918 with USCIS
- Include evidence: police reports, medical or therapy records, photos, witness statements
- Include personal statement describing the crime and how it affected you
You may apply for work authorization after you’ve been on the waitlist for some time

Important: The U Visa Waitlist Is Long

USCIS only approves 10,000 U Visas per year.

Right now:

Most applicants are placed on a waiting list
You can still receive “deferred action” (temporary protection)
You can often get a work permit while you wait

But it may take several years before a visa number becomes available.

How to Stay Safe During the Wait

Do not leave the U.S. while your case is pending
Keep your address up to date with USCIS
Keep a backup of your full application, and scan all mail
Avoid risky situations — your clean record matters
Avoid anyone trying to file multiple fake cases to “speed things up” That’s a scam. Fraud destroys your chances.

Can Men Apply for a U Visa?

Yes.
Many male survivors qualify, but most never apply due to fear or shame.

You can apply even if:

You were abused by your girlfriend, wife, or a stranger
You don’t have a current visa
You overstayed or entered without papers
You’re scared of testifying — as long as you were cooperative

Final Word

Helping the police doesn’t cancel your rights — it can actually protect them.

If you were the victim of a serious crime and spoke up, you may be able to stay in this country — legally, with protection, and without fear.

You’re not weak for being hurt.
You’re strong for surviving it — and for helping someone else stop it.