U Visas
U Visas, properly known as The U nonimmigrant status, is a special category of immigration status created by Congress to help combat human trafficking.
This special category includes those who have been victims of a specific set of crimes, have endured either mental or physical abuse, and have cooperated with law enforcement in prosecuting these criminal actions. Petitioning for a U Visa requires submission of a Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status.
Once granted, U visa nonimmigrant status is valid for four years, with extensions available in cases where further assistance is needed from law enforcement. In addition to the primary individual, family members of those granted a U Visa can apply for a derivative U visa. The principal applicant’s U visa must be approved first, however, and the derivative application must be made while the principal applicant’s status is valid.