Denice Flores, Esq.

The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) offers vital protection and legal relief to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. U visa recipients are granted a work authorization card and can live and work legally in the United States for up to four years, with a path to lawful permanent residency (green card) after having a U visa for three years. The U visa serves as a beacon of hope for survivors of crime who courageously step forward to help law enforcement while navigating their own recovery. Understanding the eligibility criteria and gathering the right documentation is essential to building a strong case. To qualify for a U visa, an applicant must meet all of the following criteria: 1. Victim of a Qualifying Crime You must have been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity , such as: Domestic violence Sexual assault Human trafficking Kidnapping Felonious assault Extortion Witness tampering Other serious offenses A full list of qualifying crimes is provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services under INA § 101(a)(15)(U). See also: https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/victims-of-criminal-activity-u-nonimmigrant-status . 2. Suffered Substantial Physical or Mental Abuse You must demonstrate that you suffered substantial harm as a result of the crime. This may include: Physical injuries Psychological trauma Lasting emotional distress 3. Helpful to Law Enforcement You must be, have been, or are likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. This includes: Reporting the crime to authorities Cooperating with police or prosecutors Providing information that aids law enforcement efforts A law enforcement certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) is required as proof of this cooperation. 4. The Crime Occurred in the U.S. or Violated U.S. Laws The criminal activity must have: Taken place in the U.S., its territories, or possessions, and Violated U.S. federal, state, or local laws Applicants must also be admissible to the United States. If you are not, based on your immigration history, you may request a waiver using Form I-192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant) . Certain qualifying family members may be included in your U visa petition: If you are under 21 years old: Your parents, unmarried siblings under 18, spouse, and children may be eligible to apply with you. If you are 21 years or older: Your spouse and children may qualify to apply with you. Each derivative must meet specific requirements and file appropriate forms. If you have any questions or would like to know more about the U visa eligibility requirements, contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), allowing eligible Lebanese nationals in the United States to stay and work temporarily due to unsafe conditions in their home country. The decision, published in the Federal Register, is based on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, which includes economic instability, widespread violence, and the aftermath of the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion. The TPS designation for Lebanon is effective December 2023 and will last for 18 months. Lebanese nationals who have been residing in the U.S. since August 1, 2023, may apply for TPS, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. Lebanese nationals who are granted TPS will be allowed to stay in the U.S. legally, work, and obtain travel authorization during the designated period. This measure is in line with the Biden administration's efforts to assist individuals from countries facing dire conditions. Applicants are advised to apply as soon as possible and to submit the necessary documentation to receive TPS status and related benefits. This designation underscores the U.S. government's support for Lebanese nationals affected by the difficult situation in Lebanon. If you have any questions or would like to know more about the eligibility requirements, contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.