U-Visas

Supporting African Victims of Crime in the United States

At Empirefly Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping African victims of crime in the United States secure U Visas, providing them with protection and a pathway to lawful permanent residency. Our experienced attorneys offer compassionate and comprehensive legal guidance to ensure a successful U Visa application process.

What is a U Visa?

A U Visa is a non-immigrant visa that provides temporary legal status and work eligibility to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. The U Visa offers protection and stability to vulnerable individuals while encouraging cooperation with authorities.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Victim of Qualifying Criminal Activity:

   • The applicant must be a victim of a qualifying crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, kidnapping, and other serious crimes.

2. Suffered Substantial Abuse:

   • The applicant must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of the criminal activity.

3. Possess Information About the Crime:

   • The applicant must possess information about the criminal activity and be willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

4. Law Enforcement Certification:

   • Obtain a certification from a law enforcement agency (Form I-918, Supplement B) confirming the applicant’s helpfulness in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

5. Admissibility:

   • The applicant must be admissible to the United States or obtain a waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-192).

U Visa Application Process

1. Gather Supporting Evidence:

   • Compile evidence demonstrating victimization, substantial abuse, and cooperation with law enforcement, including police reports, medical records, affidavits, and other relevant documentation.

2. Obtain Law Enforcement Certification:

   • Secure Form I-918, Supplement B, from a law enforcement agency confirming your helpfulness in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

3. File Form I-918:

   • Submit Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the supporting evidence and Form I-918, Supplement B.

4. Admissibility and Waivers:

   • If applicable, file Form I-192, Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant, to request a waiver of inadmissibility.

5. Approval and U Visa Issuance:

   • Upon approval of Form I-918, you will receive U nonimmigrant status, allowing you to live and work in the United States for up to four years.

6. Adjustment of Status:

   • After three years of continuous presence in the United States on a U Visa, you may be eligible to apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Why Choose Empirefly Law Firm?

1. Expert Legal Guidance:

   • Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling U Visa cases and provide personalized advice tailored to the unique needs of crime victims.

2. Comprehensive Support:

   • We offer support at every step of the U Visa application process, from gathering evidence to filing petitions and obtaining law enforcement certification.

3. Proven Success:

   • Our firm has a strong track record of successfully helping African victims of crime obtain U Visas and secure protection in the United States.

4. Client-Centered Approach:

   • We are committed to making the U Visa application process as smooth and stress-free as possible, offering compassionate and reliable support throughout your journey.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to start your U Visa application? Contact Empirefly Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process and help you achieve your goal of securing protection and stability in the United States.