5 Common U-Visa Denial Reasons in New Jersey

Have you or someone you love been the victim of a serious crime? Applying for a U-Visa may offer a pathway to safety, stability, and hope. But let’s be honest, immigration paperwork is complex, and getting a visa approval isn’t always straightforward.

At Reana Garcia Law Group, we’ve worked with many brave U-Visa applicants who were just trying to get protection and peace of mind. Immigration attorney Reana Garcia has seen what works and what doesn’t, and in this blog, she shares the five most common U-Visa denial reasons in New Jersey. Because when you know what might cause problems, you can be ready to avoid them.

Our goal is simple: to keep you informed, protected, and supported every step of the way.

1. Lack of Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B)

The most common reason for a U-Visa denial is not having the law enforcement certification form signed. This form, called Form I-918, Supplement B, is where a police department, prosecutor, judge, or other qualifying law enforcement authorities confirm that you were helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

If you don’t submit this form or submit an incomplete form, the system will reject your entire U-Visa petition.

Attorney Reana Garcia used to be a prosecutor and knows exactly how these agencies work. We don’t just fill out forms. We assist law enforcement and advocate for your cooperation. If one path is blocked, we find another. That’s the difference a hands-on U-Visa lawyer makes.

2. Criminal History or Inadmissibility Issues

Even if you were the victim of a crime, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will still look at your record. A criminal past, immigration violations, or a previous deportation can complicate your U-Visa application or lead to denial.

But here’s the thing: not all past mistakes automatically deny your application. You may qualify for waivers, and with the right legal help, an experienced U-Visa attorney can argue for forgiveness of certain offenses under existing immigration laws.

If you are married to a lawful permanent resident spouse, we’ll also assess how that may factor into your eligibility or any waiver requests.

3. Not Meeting the “Substantial Help” Requirement

You don’t have to be a hero or solve the case, but you must be helpful to law enforcement. That could mean talking to police, going to court, testifying, or cooperating in an investigation. To qualify for nonimmigrant status under the U-Visa, you must show you were helpful or are likely to be helpful in a criminal case.

Sometimes, people are too scared to talk to the police, especially if they’re undocumented. But without at least some cooperation, you may face a denial of your U-Visa for not meeting the “helpfulness” standard. We work hard to make sure your efforts to assist law enforcement are clearly shown and supported with evidence.

4. Missing or Incomplete Evidence

Your story matters, but in the eyes of USCIS, proof matters more. U-Visa applications must include:

• A personal statement about what happened to you
• Police reports
• Medical records or photos (if available)
• Court documents
• Evidence of your cooperation

This is especially important in cases involving crimes like domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, where emotional trauma may be harder to “see” on paper.

Your U-Visa could be denied or delayed if something’s missing or if your packet doesn’t clearly connect the dots. A complete and compelling application is the key to a successful visa approval.

5. Delays, Deadlines, and Miscommunication

U-Visa applications are part of a highly sought-after nonimmigrant visa category. USCIS has an annual cap, so even complete applications often sit in line for years before review. During that time, it’s easy to miss a deadline, fail to respond to a request for evidence, or feel completely left in the dark. But:

1. A missed deadline can lead to a denied case.
2. A wrong address can delay a critical notice.
3. A poor response can end your chance at relief.

At Reana Garcia Law Group, we believe communication is everything. We inform our clients because this is their life, and they have the right to know what’s happening. With our client-centric approach, your needs come first, and your voice is heard every step of the way.

We also help eligible U-Visa applicants understand their rights, such as the ability to apply for employment authorization once their nonimmigrant status is approved or placed on the waitlist.

Don’t Let One Denial Define Your Future. You Need a Team That’s in Your Corner

Obtaining a U-Visa isn’t easy, but it’s possible with the right legal help. If your U-Visa was denied or you’re considering applying and want to avoid mistakes, Reana Garcia Law Group will sit you down, explain your options, and fight to protect your rights.

We know how high the stakes are. When you’ve been the victim of a crime, you shouldn’t have to face the immigration system alone, too. Because at the end of the day, you’ve already shown courage by surviving the crime. Now it’s time for someone to be courageous for you.

Looking for an “immigration attorney near me?” Whether you’re navigating immigration laws or just trying to stay safe, we’re here to fight for you and your family. Call us at (201) 983-4012(201) 983-4012 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with a U-Visa lawyer who will stick with your case from day one.

Dedication. Communication. Determination. That’s our promise to you.

Copyright © 2025. Reana Garcia Law Group. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Reana Garcia Law Group
22 Chestnut St
Rutherford, NJ 07070
(201) 983-4012(201) 983-4012
https://www.reanagarcialawgroup.com/