Coppell U-Visa Lawyers

Serving the People of Denton County & Beyond

Victims of crime may be eligible for U nonimmigrant status, or a U visa. This status is for individuals who have suffered mental and physical abuse and are helpful to officials investigating or prosecuting criminal activity. At Christensen Immigration Attorneys, we help victims of crime obtain U nonimmigrant status.

The Purpose of the U Visa

The U nonimmigrant visa was created by Congress with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. Prior to the passage of this legislation, crime victims who were in the United States illegally were often afraid to report crimes because they didn’t want law enforcement to know they were here illegally. With the U visa, victims can assist law enforcement without fear, which benefits both the individual and law enforcement officials.

The legislation helps law enforcement agencies investigate and prosecute cases including, but not limited to:

• Domestic violence
• Sexual assault
• Trafficking of aliens
• Drug crimes

In addition to helping law enforcement, this legislation offers protection for victims of crime who have suffered substantial mental and physical abuse because they were a victim of a qualifying crime and are willing to help law enforcement authorities who are better equipped to investigate and prosecute criminal activity and to serve victims of serious crimes. Not every victim of a crime qualifies for a U-visa so it is important to talk to an attorney before starting this long process.  

Our immigration attorneys can help you determine if you qualify for this visa.

Eligibility for U Nonimmigrant Status

You may be eligible for a U visa if you have been the victim of a crime and suffered substantial mental or physical abuse as a result of the criminal activity. If you have information about the criminal activity and are helpful or likely to be helpful to law enforcement officials investigating or prosecuting the crime, and the crime occurred in the United States or violated U.S. laws, you may qualify for U nonimmigrant status. Individuals who are younger than 16 or unable to provide information due to a disability, may have a parent, guardian, or friend assist on their behalf.