U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims)
For victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered abuse and assist law enforcement.
The U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) is a US humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (No fee for the I-918 petition (waivers available for related forms)) and processing time (~Several years due to the annual cap and waiting list), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) is for
For victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered abuse and assist law enforcement.
May apply for a green card after 3 years of continuous U status presence.
U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) - eligibility criteria
- Be the victim of a qualifying criminal activity
- Have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse
- Possess information about the crime
- Be helpful to law enforcement (certification required)
- The crime occurred in the US or violated US law
U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) (United States) is No fee for the I-918 petition (waivers available for related forms), with an indicative processing time of ~Several years due to the annual cap and waiting list. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed inside or outside the US with USCIS |
| Length of stay | Up to 4 years; green card eligible after 3 years in U status |
| Work rights | Work authorization granted with U status |
| Study rights | Study permitted |
| Government fee | No fee for the I-918 petition (waivers available for related forms) |
| Processing time | ~Several years due to the annual cap and waiting list |
| Route to PR | May apply for a green card after 3 years of continuous U status presence. |
Pathway & next steps
May apply for a green card after 3 years of continuous U status presence.
Many applicants also compare T Visa · T Nonimmigrant Visa (Trafficking Victims), Asylum · Asylum in the United States, Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US). Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) pitfalls we fix
U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) - frequently asked questions
How much does the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) cost?
The U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) government fee is No fee for the I-918 petition (waivers available for related forms). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~Several years due to the annual cap and waiting list. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims) lead to permanent residence?
May apply for a green card after 3 years of continuous U status presence.
Can I work on the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims)?
Work rights: Work authorization granted with U status.
Who can apply for the U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims)?
For victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered abuse and assist law enforcement.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority