U visas
Finally! Some of the U visas that we filed in late 2014 and early 2015 are now being approved.
Yes... you read that right. It has taken that long to get approvals from USCIS for people who were victims of violent crimes and who cooperated with the police. It is a happy day in our office when an approval comes in the mail and one of the best feelings when we can call a client and give them the great news.
However, for new U visa applicants, the waiting time is going to be much longer. A U visa can be granted if a VICTIM of a serious crime has cooperated with Law Enforcement and qualifies for the visa.
The Department of Homeland Security estimates that the current waiting time is over 8 years. For some people, the U visa is still the best option.
If you (or someone you know) have been a victim of a violent crime, talk with an Immigration Lawyer who regularly handles these kinds of cases and see if you qualify for this humanitarian visa. Usually, it doesn’t matter how long ago the crime happened. Cooperation is one of the requirements.
Call our office if you need help reviewing your eligibility for the U visa or any other immigration benefit. 816-356-7100.
