U-visas are for victims of certain qualifying crimes that resulted in physical or psychological harm to the victim.

The victim must cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation of the crime and/or prosecution of the individual who is accused. A U visa allows an individual to live and work in the US for up to four years. After three years an immigrant in a U visa state can apply for adjustment of status (green card). Crimes that qualify for U visa protection include domestic violence, sexual abuse, kidnapping, stalking, and rape.

A victim of one of the qualifying crimes must obtain certification from a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency or other authority responsible for the investigation or prosecution of the crime in order to proceed with the application for a U visa.

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