Applying for a United States visa is a long, expensive, and complicated process. Approval typically involves numerous supporting documents and interviews, and the requirements may be confusing for those without prior immigration experience.
At J. Lopez Law, our immigrant visa attorneys pride themselves on personal and professional legal representation. If you have been the victim of a crime, a U-Visa could allow you to live in the United States while cooperating with law enforcement. A Houston U-Visa lawyer could explain eligibility and assist you during the application process.
There are over 20 different kinds of United States visas, and it is incredibly important that you consult with an attorney to apply for the right one. The type of visa you need depends on your purpose for travelling to the US, how long you intend to stay in the country, your occupation, and other factors.
U-Visas, or U Nonimmigrant Visas, are only granted to victims of criminal activity that occurred in the United States. As a U-Visa attorney in Houston could further explain, this type of visa has several qualifiers, including:
When beginning the U-Visa application process, a Houston attorney could help you complete Form I-918. If you are applying for yourself and a family member, you must also fill out Form 1-918 Supplement A.
Next, a certifying official must complete Form 1-918 Supplement B. Certifying officials include members of any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency, such as prosecutors or judges. These officials also include Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and Child Protective Services agents.
You will then mail all your forms and supporting documents to a USCIS service center. There is no cost to file the I-918 forms for a U-Visa application or an I-765 Form (Application for Employment Authorization), which the USCIS recommends submitting concurrently with your I-918 forms.
Finally, USCIS will review your materials and render a decision. If you receive a “bona fide determination,” your application was accepted as credible.
The Houston U-Visa attorneys at J. Lopez Law are equipped to provide information and advice at any step of the application process. If you have previously been approved for a U-Visa that is set to expire, our attorneys could guide you through the renewal process. While this can be completed online, working with a legal professional who possesses immigration experience could be extremely helpful.
The United States visa application process can be long and confusing. For U-Visa applicants, applying can also be emotionally draining. At J. Lopez Law, we strive to offer compassionate legal support to all our clients through their respective journeys.
If you are eligible for U Nonimmigrant status, schedule a consultation with a Houston U-Visa lawyer from our firm. We are staffed with experienced immigration attorneys who are looking forward to representing you and your family.
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