Victims of Criminal Acts: U Nonimmigrant Status. The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is reserved for victims of certain crimes who have suffered physical or mental abuse and provide assistance to law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. Congress created the U nonimmigrant visa by passing the Victims of Human Trafficking and Violence Protection Act (including the Abused Immigrant Women Protection Act) in October 2000. This legislation is intended to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic violence, sexual abuse, alien trafficking, and other crimes, while protecting victims of crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse as a result of such crimes and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity. The legislation also helps law enforcement agencies better serve crime victims.

What are some of the requirements for a U Visa?

• Being the victim of a violent crime against your person.

• There must be a police report.

• The victim must have cooperated with the investigation of the crime.

• Obtaining a certification from the authorities.

• Proving whether the victim suffered physical, psychological or emotional damage.