№ 01 — U Visa

Protection for victims who have shown the courage to come forward.

The U Visa was created to protect victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial physical or emotional harm and have cooperated with law enforcement during the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

At GWP Immigration Law, we help eligible individuals understand their options, prepare strong applications, and guide them through every stage of the process with care, discretion, and compassion.

Call (702) 737-7717

№ 02 — Understanding the U Visa

A humanitarian protection for crime victims.

The U Visa is a humanitarian immigration benefit created for victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial physical or emotional abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement authorities.

Applicants generally begin by obtaining a certification from a qualifying law enforcement agency confirming that they have cooperated in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

If approved, recipients may receive temporary legal status and Employment Authorization. After meeting additional legal requirements, many recipients may later become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence through Adjustment of Status.

Important

Every U Visa case depends on meeting the legal requirements established by federal law, including cooperation with law enforcement and proof of substantial harm.

№ 03 — who may qualify?

Basic eligibility for a U Visa.

Eligibility depends on the facts of each individual case and the requirements established by U.S. immigration law.

Victim of a Qualifying Crime

You were the victim of a qualifying criminal activity such as domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, kidnapping, armed robbery, or another crime recognized under the U Visa program.

Substantial Harm

You suffered substantial physical or emotional harm as a result of the criminal activity.

Helpful Information

You possess information about the crime. If you are under 16 years old or unable to provide information because of a disability, a qualifying representative may assist on your behalf.

Cooperation with Law Enforcement

You have been, are being, or are willing to be helpful to law enforcement authorities investigating or prosecuting the crime.

Crime Connected to the United States

The criminal activity occurred within the United States or violated U.S. law.

Admissibility

You are admissible to the United States, or may qualify to request an available waiver if necessary.

Eligibility depends entirely on your immigration history, the facts surrounding the crime, and the evidence available. A legal consultation is the best way to determine whether you qualify.

№ 04 — The application process

From police certification to immigration protection.

Police Certification

We help determine whether a qualifying law enforcement agency can certify your cooperation.

Case Evaluation

We review your immigration history and determine the strongest legal strategy.

III

Application Preparation

We prepare Form I-918 together with all supporting evidence and any necessary waiver applications.

USCIS Review

USCIS reviews your application and supporting documentation.

U Visa Approval

If approved, you receive U Visa status and Employment Authorization under current USCIS rules.

Future Permanent Residence

After meeting the statutory requirements, you may become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence through Adjustment of Status.

№ 05 — how we help

Guiding you through every step with compassion.

Applying for a U Visa requires careful documentation, coordination with law enforcement, and a well-prepared immigration case. Here’s how we help.

Evaluate whether the U Visa is the right option.

Help obtain the required law enforcement certification.

Prepare Form I-918 and supporting documentation.

Prepare any available waiver applications when appropriate.

Organize evidence demonstrating eligibility.

Guide you through every stage until USCIS reaches a decision.

№ 06 — frequently asked questions

Questions we hear often.

What is a U Visa?

A U Visa is a humanitarian immigration benefit for victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial physical or emotional harm and have been helpful to law enforcement authorities.

Do I need to cooperate with the police?

Generally, yes. Cooperation with a qualifying law enforcement agency is one of the central requirements of the U Visa process. A certification confirming your helpfulness is typically required.

Can I receive a work permit?

If your U Visa is approved, you may receive Employment Authorization that allows you to work legally in the United States under current immigration regulations.

Can a U Visa lead to a Green Card?

In many cases, yes. After maintaining U Visa status and satisfying the legal requirements, eligible recipients may apply for lawful permanent residence through Adjustment of Status.

What if I have immigration violations?

Some applicants who would otherwise be inadmissible may qualify to request a waiver. Whether one is available depends on the circumstances of your case, which we carefully evaluate.

Can GWP help me through the entire process?

Yes. We guide clients from the initial case evaluation and law enforcement certification through the U Visa application and, when appropriate, the later process of applying for permanent residence.

Your story deserves to be heard —

Protection begins with understanding your options.

If you have been the victim of a qualifying crime, you may have legal protections available under U.S. immigration law. Our attorneys will carefully evaluate your situation, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence and compassion.

Or call (702) 737-7717