Immigrant Victim of Crime? You May Qualify for a U Visa

U Visas: Immigration Relief For Survivors Of Serious Crimes

If you are an undocumented immigrant who has been the victim of a serious crime in the U.S., you may be afraid to report it—fearing that contact with law enforcement could lead to deportation. The U Visa is designed to protect and empower victims like you.

This humanitarian visa offers protection, work authorization, and a path to permanent residency for those who have suffered significant harm and cooperated with police or prosecutors. At Reana Garcia Law Group, we stand with immigrant survivors throughout New Jersey—helping them apply for U Visas with compassion, skill, and complete confidentiality.

What Is A U Visa?

The U Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that provides temporary legal status to victims of certain qualifying crimes who:

• Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse, and
• Are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

U Visa recipients may be eligible to:

• Stay in the U.S. lawfully for up to 4 years (with extensions available)
• Apply for work authorization
  
• Apply for a green card after 3 years

There is a cap of 10,000 U Visas per year, but deferred action and work permits may be available while your application is pending.

Who Qualifies For A U Visa?

You may be eligible for a U Visa if:

• You were the victim of a qualifying crime that occurred in the U.S.
• You suffered substantial physical or emotional harm
  
• You have been, are being, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement
  
• You are admissible to the U.S. or eligible for a waiver (Form I-192)

Common Qualifying Crimes:

• Domestic violence
• Sexual assault
• Felonious assault
• Human trafficking
• Kidnapping
• Stalking
• Witness tampering
• Blackmail
• Involuntary servitude
• Rape
• Murder or attempted murder

Even undocumented victims can apply. You do not have to be in lawful immigration status to qualify.

Benefits Of The U Visa

• Legal status in the U.S. for up to 4 years
  
• Work authorization to support yourself and your family
• Path to lawful permanent residence (green card) after 3 years
• Protection from deportation
  
• Eligibility to include qualifying family members, such as:
  • Spouse
  • Children under 21
  • Parents (if the applicant is under 21)

How The U Visa Process Works

1. Initial Consultation & Case Evaluation
   We review your experience, determine eligibility, and identify the required law enforcement agency for certification.
2. Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B)
   We request a signed certification from a police department, prosecutor’s office, or other agency that confirms your helpfulness in the case.
3. Prepare & File U Visa Application
   We submit the full U Visa packet, including:
   • Form I-918
   • Personal declaration
   • Medical or psychological evaluations
   • Evidence of harm and cooperation
   • Waiver requests (if needed)
4. Work Permit & Deferred Action (if waitlisted)
   If the visa cap is reached, you may receive deferred action status and a work permit.
5. Path to Green Card (Form I-485)
   After 3 years in U Visa status, we assist you in applying for lawful permanent residence.

How Reana Garcia Law Group Can Help

• Trauma-Informed Legal Representation
  We understand the sensitive nature of U Visa cases and treat every client with compassion and dignity.
• Law Enforcement Certification Support
  We communicate with police and prosecutors to obtain the necessary certification, even in older or closed cases.
• Strong Application Preparation
  We build a complete, compelling application backed by medical records, statements, and legal arguments.
• Bilingual Support in English & Spanish
  We offer clear communication and culturally sensitive guidance throughout your case.

Who Should Apply For A U Visa?

You should contact us if:

• You are undocumented and have been the victim of a serious crime
• You’re afraid to cooperate with police due to your immigration status
• You helped law enforcement in a case, even years ago
• Your child was the victim of a crime, and you are a parent
• You were previously denied immigration benefits due to your status

We serve immigrants from all backgrounds, with or without legal status.

Why Choose Reana Garcia Law Group?

• Trusted Advocate for Immigrant Survivors
  We help vulnerable individuals find legal safety and peace of mind after trauma.
• Experienced with Complex U Visa Cases
  Whether your case involves an old crime, waiver needs, or complicated histories—we’re prepared.
• Private, Respectful Representation
  Your safety, privacy, and comfort come first. We create a safe legal space to tell your story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still apply for a U Visa if the perpetrator wasn’t arrested or convicted?
Yes. As long as you cooperated or were helpful in the investigation, you may still qualify.

Do I have to report the crime immediately?
No. Even if the crime occurred years ago, you may still be eligible—especially if there are police reports or evidence of cooperation.

Can I include my children or spouse in the application?
Yes. Depending on your age and circumstances, qualifying family members can be included for derivative U Visas.

Related Services

• VAWA Petitions (for survivors of domestic violence)
• I-192 Waivers of Inadmissibility
• Green Cards for U Visa Holders
• Asylum & Humanitarian Relief
• Removal Defense for Crime Victims
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJ)

You’Ve Been Through Enough—Let Us Fight For You Now

If you’ve been the victim of a serious crime and are afraid to come forward because of your immigration status, you’re not alone. Reana Garcia Law Group is here to help you apply for the protection you deserve.

📞 Call us now at (201) 983-4012(201) 983-4012 for a confidential consultation
📍22 Chestnut St, Rutherford, NJ 07070
We believe in your right to safety—and we’ll help you stand up for it.