Mesa U Visa Lawyer

Immigrants often face a distressing choice when they are victims of a crime. Reporting the offense and cooperating with police could impact their ability to remain in the country, particularly if they lack legal status. The federal government has adopted the U visa program to protect these individuals and allow them to work with law enforcement without fear. 

A dedicated immigration attorney could help you stay in the country and even earn a path to residency if you qualify. To be certain you are eligible, seek guidance from a Mesa U visa lawyer.

Who Qualifies for a U Visa?

This program is available for immigrants who are victims of a specific list of serious crimes. A person can apply for a U visa when they are the victim of these offenses or the target of an attempt or a conspiracy. The offense must occur in the United States and result in physical or emotional harm. Some common examples include the following:

• Stalking
• Kidnapping
• Trafficking
• Rape
• Torture
• Murder

To qualify, the applicant must be the victim of a crime and provide helpful information to law enforcement about the offense. This information must be useful to the state in investigating and prosecuting the perpetrator and go beyond providing details of the act. In many situations, a person may be required to agree to testify at trial if the accused does not enter a guilty plea. A lawyer in Mesa could help a crime victim understand whether they qualify for a U Visa.

The Process of Applying

When seeking the protection of a U visa, an immigrant must follow a specific process. It begins with submitting Form I-918, commonly referred to as a Petition for Nonimmigrant Status. In addition to the standard form, the immigrant must include additional documentation known as Supplement B.

Supplement B is crucial to the process. It provides the federal government with details on the criminal activity the applicant intends to assist local authorities with. It must be signed by a law enforcement official with the agency the applicant is helping. 

The next step involves providing a statement outlining the facts of the offense. With the help of a U visa lawyer in Mesa, it is possible to inform the government about the details of the crime and the evidence that will be offered.

U Visas Are Not Permanent

If an application is accepted, an immigrant can remain in this country for four years. These visas are never permanent, and while they do not vary in length, an extension is possible when the criminal case in question is still ongoing. 

Alternatively, an applicant may qualify for a green card. This becomes an option for someone on a U visa after they have lived in the United States for three years, but before their current visa expires.

Talk to a Mesa U Visa Attorney Immediately

If you were victimized while living in the United States, you could assist the police with their investigation without risking your status in this country. In fact, a Mesa U visa lawyer could assist you with obtaining lawful permanent resident status in this country for aiding the prosecution. Call today to learn more.