People often search for this issue as U visa, crime victim visa, victim of criminal activity, Form I-918, I-918 Supplement B (law enforcement certification), U visa work permit, U visa waitlist, or U visa waiver (Form I-192). A U visa is a humanitarian immigration option for certain victims of qualifying criminal activity who suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and were helpful to law enforcement. Many U visa cases focus on obtaining the required law enforcement certification, preparing a complete petition package, and addressing inadmissibility issues through the I-192 waiver when needed.
U Visa (Crime Victim Visa) — Form I-918, Certification (Supplement B), Work Permit, and Waiver
U Visa (Crime Victim Visa) — Form I-918, Certification (Supplement B), Work Permit, and Waiver
U Visa Details
If you are a victim of a qualifying crime and have helped or will help law enforcement investigate or prosecute the perpetrator, you may qualify for a U visa. In addition, you can generally also obtain U visas for your spouse and/or children. If the crime victim is a child, his or her parents can also obtain U visa. You may also be eligible for a green card if you have held U visa status for three years and have properly assisted law enforcement.
For Whom Is a U Visa Appropriate?
Foreign nationals who were victims of a crime and who were helpful or may be helpful in the future to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of that crime.
U Visa Requirements
A strong U visa case is built around a clear crime victim narrative and evidence supporting each legal requirement. In general, a person may qualify for U nonimmigrant status if:
- The person was a victim of a qualifying criminal activity
- The person suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the crime
- The person has information about the crime and was helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful to law enforcement
- The criminal activity occurred in the United States (or violated U.S. law)
- The person has a valid law enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B), unless a narrow exception applies
Because these cases are evidence-driven, the best first step is building a clean timeline and collecting records that support the crime, the harm, and the helpfulness elements.
Qualifying Criminal Activity
| Abduction | Incest | Sexual Assault |
|---|---|---|
| Abusive Sexual Contact | Involuntary Servitude | Sexual Exploitation |
| Blackmail | Kidnapping | Slave Trade |
| Domestic Violence | Manslaughter | Stalking |
| Extortion | Murder | Torture |
| False Imprisonment | Obstruction of Justice | Trafficking |
| Female Genital Mutilation | Peonage | Witness Tampering |
| Felonious Assault | Perjury | Unlawful Criminal Restraint |
| Fraud in Foreign Labor Contracting | Prostitution | Other Related Crimes*† |
| Hostage | Rape | *Includes any similar activity where the elements of the crime are substantially similar. †Also includes attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the above and other related crimes. |
Law enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B)
The law enforcement certification (I-918 Supplement B) is one of the most important parts of a U visa case. It is signed by a qualifying law enforcement agency to confirm that:
- The person is a victim of qualifying criminal activity, and
- The person has been helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution.
Because certification practices vary by agency, a successful strategy often includes presenting a clear, organized certification request packet with a concise timeline, supporting evidence, and a professional cover letter that makes it easy for the agency to review and sign.
U visa waitlist, bona fide determination (BFD), and work permit (EAD)
Many people search “U visa work permit” and “U visa waitlist” because U visa processing can be lengthy and work authorization timing is a major concern.
In practice, U visa cases may involve:
- USCIS review for completeness and credibility (“bona fide” review concepts)
- A waitlist or deferred action stage in some cases, depending on the person’s posture and USCIS processing
- Requests for employment authorization (EAD) where available, which can be critical for stability while the case is pending
Because these benefits are process- and posture-dependent, the best approach is to submit a complete, well-organized filing and plan work authorization strategy early.
Frequently asked questions about the U visa (crime victim visa)
What is a U visa?
A U visa (U nonimmigrant status) is a humanitarian option for certain victims of qualifying criminal activity who suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and were helpful to law enforcement.
What is the law enforcement certification for a U visa?
The certification is Form I-918 Supplement B. It is signed by a qualifying law enforcement agency to confirm the victim’s helpfulness in the investigation or prosecution and is a key part of most U visa cases.
Can I get a work permit with a U visa case?
Work authorization options depend on case posture and USCIS processing. Many cases focus on filing a complete U visa package early so the applicant can pursue available work authorization as soon as it becomes available.
USCIS Memo Relating to U VISA
| Date | Title | Details |
|---|---|---|
| October 04, 2016 | Policy Memorandum PM 602-0032.1 | Guidance for Extension of Status for T and U Nonimmigrants |
| May 13, 2016 | Matter of L-S-M- | Matter of L-S-M- clarifies that the exception to the civil penalties for failure to comply with an order of voluntary departure, available for certain victims of domestic violence or related abuse |
