U Visa Attorney in New Bern, NC

Aiding Victims of Crimes

In 2000, Congress enacted the Victims of Trafficking and Violent Protection Act, which provides crime victims with U visas when they assist law enforcement officials with investigating and prosecuting serious and violent crimes. However, obtaining a U visa can be a complex legal process, which is why it is crucial to have an experienced immigration attorney on your side.

At E.A. Wood Law Firm, we are committed to helping crime victims obtain a U visa in order to legally remain and work in the United States. Our legal team can determine if you are eligible for the visa, handle all the necessary paperwork, collect supporting documents, and ensure you meet all the deadlines and qualifications.

Do not hesitate to contact us today at (800) 611-0821 to learn how we can help you through this challenging situation.

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

A U visa is a nonimmigrant status visa, which is available to individuals in the U.S. who have been victims of certain crimes. The visa protects immigrant victims of such crimes who might otherwise not report the offense or testify against the defendant because they are afraid of being deported.

The following are the main requirements for obtaining a U visa:

• The applicant has been a victim or the immediate relative of the victim of a serious crime. Common offenses include assault, domestic violence, kidnapping, sexual assault, prostitution, trafficking, murder, etc.
• The crime occurred in the U.S. and/or violated U.S. laws.
• The applicant must have suffered severe physical and mental injury after being a crime victim.
• The applicant must provide helpful information to law enforcement authorities.
• The applicant is admissible to the U.S. under current immigration law. However, applicants who may not be admissible may apply for a waiver.

The annual cap for U visas is 10,000. However, there is no limit to the number of individuals who are given nonimmigrant status due to their relationship with a family member who qualifies for a U visa.

Although relatives of an applicant cannot apply for a U visa independently, the principal applicant can also petition on behalf of their loved ones. Applicants who are younger than 21 years of age can petition for the inclusion of their parents, unmarried minor siblings, spouse, and children, while applicants who are at least 21 can petition for their spouse and children.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

Our firm works together with crime victims and their families to properly present the case to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). We are ready to help you through each step of the legal process.

Call (800) 611-0821 to discuss your case with our New Bern U visa immigration lawyer.