Visas for Victims of Crimes

U Visa

You may be eligible for a U visa if:

  • You were a victim of a qualifying crime in the United States

  • You suffered substantial physical or mental harm

  • You have information about the crime

  • You were helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement

Qualifying crimes may include:

  • Domestic violence

  • Sexual assault

  • Human trafficking

  • Assault

  • Kidnapping

  • Other serious violent crimes

The process:

  • The first step is always obtaining a law enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B) from the local law enforcement entity, stating that you assisted with or cooperated in an investigation.

  • You will also be required to submit Form I-918 – Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status

  • In many cases, you may also need an I-192 Waiver. U visas are one of the only types of visas that waive/forgive prior unlawful presence and/or prior removal orders.

  • Supporting declarations and evidence of harm to you

  • Applications for qualifying family members

U Visa cases require strong documentation and careful preparation to demonstrate both harm suffered and cooperation with law enforcement.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, we can evaluate your situation and explain your options.

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)

The VAWA self-petition allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to apply for immigration status without the abuser’s knowledge or consent.

Despite the name, VAWA protections apply to both women and men

What is VAWA?

VAWA is a humanitarian immigration protection that allows individuals who have experienced abuse by a qualifying family member to apply for lawful status independently.

A VAWA self-petition can provide a path to a green card and, eventually, U.S. citizenship.

You may qualify if you have experienced abuse from:

  • A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse

  • A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent

  • A U.S. citizen adult child

Abuse may include:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional or psychological abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Extreme cruelty or controlling behavior

We assist with:

  • Form I-360 – VAWA Self-Petition

  • Gathering evidence of abuse and qualifying relationships

  • Preparing detailed personal statements

  • Adjustment of Status applications (Form I-485) after approval

Our firm approaches these cases with care, discretion, and respect, helping clients navigate the process in a way that prioritizes both safety and long-term stability.