Victims of crime who find themselves in the United States often face not only emotional and physical harm but also immigration challenges. Many do not realize that the law provides specific protections and visa options that can help them gain safety, security, and legal status. As a lawyer for the U visa and others, we can help you along your immigration path.
At our office, we work closely with individuals who have survived crimes and need a pathway toward stability.

What is a U Visa and Who Can Apply?
The U visa is one of the most widely used forms of immigration relief for victims of serious crimes. Congress created this visa to encourage victims to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. To qualify, a person must have suffered significant physical or emotional abuse as a direct result of a crime and must be willing to provide information that assists authorities.
Applicants may qualify if they were the victim of crimes such as:
- Domestic violence
- Sexual assault
- Kidnapping
- Felonious assault
- Stalking
In addition, family members of U visa applicants may be eligible to receive derivative benefits. For example, spouses, children, or even parents of younger applicants may be included. Our services guide victims step by step, from gathering police reports and witness statements to preparing the paperwork that USCIS requires.
How Does the T Visa Protect Victims of Human Trafficking?
While the U visa applies broadly to many types of crimes, the T visa is specifically designed for victims of human trafficking. Trafficking can involve forced labor, exploitation, or sexual servitude. Victims often feel powerless and trapped, which is why this form of relief is so crucial.
The T visa provides:
- Temporary legal status for up to four years
- The ability to apply for permanent residence after three years
- Work authorization so victims can rebuild their lives
- Eligibility for certain family members to obtain status as derivatives
We represent trafficking survivors by documenting their experiences, helping them demonstrate their cooperation with law enforcement when possible, and ensuring that their applications are as strong as possible.
Can Family Members Benefit From U and T Visas?
Yes, one of the vital features of both the U and T visas is their family protections. Many victims fear for their children or spouses who depend on them. U visa applicants may include qualifying relatives, and T visa applicants may also extend protections to close family.
For instance, if a mother applies for a U visa, her children may be included as derivative applicants. Similarly, a spouse may receive protection through the main applicant’s visa. This allows families to remain together while pursuing stability in the United States. We assist with preparing all derivative applications to ensure loved ones are not left behind.
Are There Other Immigration Protections for Crime Victims?
In addition to U and T visas, there are other protections that victims may pursue. Each option depends on the circumstances of the case and the type of harm suffered. Some of these include:
- Special immigrant juvenile status for children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected
- Relief under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for spouses or children of abusive U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- Humanitarian protections that may allow someone to remain in the country temporarily
Our office provides case evaluations to determine which pathway may fit your unique situation. We carefully analyze whether a U visa, T visa, or other humanitarian option gives you the best chance at stability.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a U or T Visa?
Processing times can be lengthy. U visas, in particular, have an annual cap of 10,000 visas, and wait times often stretch for several years. However, applicants may receive deferred action or work authorization while waiting. T visas have fewer applicants but still require significant documentation and review by USCIS.
While the process can be slow, many victims find relief in knowing that they have taken the first steps toward legal status. Our office works to file accurate, thorough applications so that you do not face unnecessary delays.
What Evidence Do I Need for a U or T Visa Application?
Applicants need to show that they were victims of qualifying crimes and that they suffered abuse as a result. Evidence often includes:
- Police reports
- Court records
- Medical records documenting injuries or trauma
- Statements from social workers, therapists, or advocates
- A certification from law enforcement confirming cooperation in the investigation
We help you gather, organize, and present this evidence in a way that strengthens your case. Many victims feel overwhelmed by the paperwork, but with our services, you will have guidance from start to finish.
Do Victims of Crime Need to Testify in Court to Qualify?
Not necessarily. While applicants must show cooperation with law enforcement, this does not always mean testifying in court. In many cases, providing information to police officers or investigators is enough. Each case is different, but cooperation is broadly defined.
We review your interactions with law enforcement and help determine whether they meet the requirements. If additional documentation is needed, we work to obtain it.
How Do These Visas Connect to Other Forms of Relief?
Victims of crime sometimes qualify for multiple forms of immigration protection. For example, a person with a U visa may later apply for permanent residence. Someone with a T visa may eventually seek a green card. Victims who also face persecution in their home country may pursue political asylum for detained persons while simultaneously applying for victim-based relief.
Additionally, crime victims who marry U.S. citizens may be eligible to pursue a family petition for wife of citizen. Our office evaluates every option available to maximize your chances of obtaining lawful status.
How a Lawyer for the U Visa Helps Victims of Crime Through Immigration Proceedings
We know how difficult it is to recover after being the victim of a crime. Our services are centered on guiding clients with care, privacy, and professionalism. We provide:
- Consultations to assess your eligibility for a U or T visa
- Assistance with gathering police reports and victim statements
- Preparation and filing of applications with USCIS
- Legal representation during interviews and any follow-up requests
- Support for derivative family members included in the application
Each case is unique, and our goal is to give you the best possible chance to move forward with safety and stability.
Support From a Los Angeles Immigration Court Attorney
When your case involves immigration court, the stakes can feel even higher. Victims of crime who face deportation or removal proceedings may still qualify for relief through U visas, T visas, or related protections. As a Los Angeles immigration court attorney, we represent clients not only before USCIS but also in hearings where judges evaluate their eligibility to remain in the country. Our work ensures that crime victims are not left without hope and that they have the legal advocacy necessary to pursue protection under U.S. immigration law.