{"id":1345,"date":"2026-04-18T14:59:13","date_gmt":"2026-04-18T14:59:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/?p=1345"},"modified":"2026-04-18T14:59:13","modified_gmt":"2026-04-18T14:59:13","slug":"u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"U Visa for Crime Victims 2026: Eligibility, Requirements, and How to Apply"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Browse Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"\u0130\u00e7indekiler Tablosunu A\u00e7\/Kapat\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#U_Visa_for_Crime_Victims_2026_Eligibility_Requirements_and_How_to_Apply\" >U Visa for Crime Victims 2026: Eligibility, Requirements, and How to Apply<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Who_Qualifies_for_a_U_Visa\" >Who Qualifies for a U Visa?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#1_You_Suffered_Substantial_Abuse_from_a_Qualifying_Crime\" >1. You Suffered Substantial Abuse from a Qualifying Crime<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#2_The_Crime_Is_a_Qualifying_Criminal_Activity\" >2. The Crime Is a Qualifying Criminal Activity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#3_You_Have_Been_Are_Being_or_Are_Likely_to_Be_Helpful_to_Law_Enforcement\" >3. You Have Been, Are Being, or Are Likely to Be Helpful to Law Enforcement<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#4_You_Have_Obtained_Law_Enforcement_Certification_Form_I-918B\" >4. You Have Obtained Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918B)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Qualifying_Crimes_and_USCIS_Standards\" >Qualifying Crimes and USCIS Standards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#The_U_Visa_Waiting_List_and_Bona_Fide_Determination_BFD\" >The U Visa Waiting List and Bona Fide Determination (BFD)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#How_to_Apply_for_a_U_Visa_Step-by-Step\" >How to Apply for a U Visa: Step-by-Step<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Step_1_Obtain_Form_I-918B_Law_Enforcement_Certification\" >Step 1: Obtain Form I-918B Law Enforcement Certification<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Step_2_Complete_Form_I-918_Main_Petition\" >Step 2: Complete Form I-918 (Main Petition)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Step_3_File_for_Derivative_Beneficiaries_if_applicable\" >Step 3: File for Derivative Beneficiaries (if applicable)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Step_4_Await_BFD_Review_and_EAD\" >Step 4: Await BFD Review and EAD<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Step_5_Await_U_Visa_Approval_or_Cap_Queue\" >Step 5: Await U Visa Approval or Cap Queue<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#U_Visa_to_Green_Card_The_Path_to_Lawful_Permanent_Residence\" >U Visa to Green Card: The Path to Lawful Permanent Residence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#U_Visa_vs_T_Visa_Key_Differences\" >U Visa vs. T Visa: Key Differences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Common_Challenges_and_How_Atlas_Legal_Can_Help\" >Common Challenges and How Atlas Legal Can Help<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_U_Visa_2026\" >Frequently Asked Questions: U Visa 2026<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#How_long_does_U_visa_processing_take_in_2026\" >How long does U visa processing take in 2026?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Can_I_get_a_green_card_through_a_U_visa\" >Can I get a green card through a U visa?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#What_if_the_police_refused_to_sign_my_U_visa_certification\" >What if the police refused to sign my U visa certification?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Can_my_family_members_get_U_visa_status_too\" >Can my family members get U visa status too?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/u-visa-crime-victims-2026-eligibility-requirements-guide\/#Does_the_crime_need_to_have_been_reported_to_police_for_a_U_visa\" >Does the crime need to have been reported to police for a U visa?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<article itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Article\">\n<meta itemprop=\"datePublished\" content=\"2026-04-18\" \/><br \/>\n<meta itemprop=\"dateModified\" content=\"2026-04-18\" \/><br \/>\n<meta itemprop=\"author\" content=\"Atlas Legal Immigration\" \/><\/p>\n<h1 itemprop=\"headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"U_Visa_for_Crime_Victims_2026_Eligibility_Requirements_and_How_to_Apply\"><\/span>U Visa for Crime Victims 2026: Eligibility, Requirements, and How to Apply<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<div class=\"key-takeaways\" style=\"background:#f0f4ff;border-left:4px solid #1a56db;padding:18px 22px;margin:24px 0;border-radius:4px;\">\n<strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul style=\"margin:10px 0 0 0;padding-left:20px;\">\n<li>Only <strong>10,000 U visas<\/strong> are issued per fiscal year; the waiting list exceeded <strong>350,000 petitions<\/strong> as of 2025<\/li>\n<li>USCIS grants <strong>bona fide determination (BFD)<\/strong> status with work authorization while you wait on the list<\/li>\n<li>You must obtain a <strong>law enforcement certification (Form I-918B)<\/strong> from a qualifying agency<\/li>\n<li>U visa holders can apply for a <strong>green card after 3 years<\/strong> on U nonimmigrant status<\/li>\n<li>Qualifying crimes include domestic violence, sexual assault, robbery, trafficking, and over 25 others<\/li>\n<li>Family members (spouses, children, parents) may qualify as <strong>derivative U visa holders<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<figure style=\"margin:28px 0;\">\n<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.pexels.com\/photos\/5669603\/pexels-photo-5669603.jpeg?auto=compress&#038;cs=tinysrgb&#038;w=1200&#038;h=630&#038;fit=crop\" alt=\"Immigration attorney reviewing U visa petition documents for crime victim client in consultation\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" loading=\"eager\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:6px;\" itemprop=\"image\" \/><figcaption style=\"font-size:13px;color:#555;margin-top:6px;text-align:center;\">The U visa provides immigration protection and work authorization to immigrant crime victims who cooperate with law enforcement.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The U nonimmigrant visa is one of the most powerful humanitarian protections in US immigration law \u2014 and one of the least understood. Created by Congress in 2000 through the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, the U visa protects noncitizen crime victims who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting that crime. According to USCIS data, the U visa waiting list stood at over 350,000 petitions as of fiscal year 2025, reflecting demand that is 35 times the annual cap of 10,000 visas.<\/p>\n<p>Despite the long wait, the U visa pathway is worth pursuing. USCIS now grants bona fide determination (BFD) status to qualifying petitioners, which provides work authorization and protection from deportation while they wait for a visa number to become available. After three years on U status, holders can apply for lawful permanent residence. This guide covers everything you need to know about U visa eligibility, the certification process, the waiting list, and the path to a green card.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Qualifies_for_a_U_Visa\"><\/span>Who Qualifies for a U Visa?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>To qualify for U nonimmigrant status, you must meet all four of the following requirements, according to INA Section 101(a)(15)(U) and USCIS Policy Manual Volume 3:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_You_Suffered_Substantial_Abuse_from_a_Qualifying_Crime\"><\/span>1. You Suffered Substantial Abuse from a Qualifying Crime<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You must have been the victim of a qualifying criminal activity and suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result. &#8220;Substantial&#8221; does not mean the most severe possible harm \u2014 USCIS evaluates factors like nature of the injury, severity, duration, and the vulnerability of the victim. The abuse must have occurred in the United States or violate US federal law.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_The_Crime_Is_a_Qualifying_Criminal_Activity\"><\/span>2. The Crime Is a Qualifying Criminal Activity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The crime must fall within the list of qualifying criminal activities established by USCIS. This list includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Domestic violence<\/li>\n<li>Sexual assault \/ rape<\/li>\n<li>Sexual exploitation<\/li>\n<li>Trafficking (labor or sex)<\/li>\n<li>Female genital mutilation (FGM)<\/li>\n<li>Abusive sexual contact<\/li>\n<li>Stalking<\/li>\n<li>Kidnapping \/ abduction<\/li>\n<li>Robbery \/ extortion<\/li>\n<li>Murder \/ manslaughter<\/li>\n<li>Felonious assault<\/li>\n<li>Witness tampering \/ obstruction<\/li>\n<li>Torture \/ involuntary servitude<\/li>\n<li>Slave trade \/ peonage<\/li>\n<li>Blackmail and similar crimes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>USCIS also accepts &#8220;similar activities&#8221; \u2014 crimes that are similar in nature to those listed. An immigration attorney can evaluate whether an unlisted crime qualifies.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_You_Have_Been_Are_Being_or_Are_Likely_to_Be_Helpful_to_Law_Enforcement\"><\/span>3. You Have Been, Are Being, or Are Likely to Be Helpful to Law Enforcement<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You must be helpful (or likely to be helpful) to law enforcement in the detection, investigation, prosecution, conviction, or sentencing of the qualifying crime. Importantly, USCIS does not require that the perpetrator be convicted \u2014 only that you cooperated or are willing to cooperate. You also must not have refused or failed to provide reasonable assistance after a request from law enforcement.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_You_Have_Obtained_Law_Enforcement_Certification_Form_I-918B\"><\/span>4. You Have Obtained Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918B)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is often the hardest requirement to meet in practice. You need a certifying official \u2014 a law enforcement officer, prosecutor, judge, or other authority \u2014 to sign Form I-918 Supplement B, certifying your helpfulness to the investigation. Certifying agencies include local police departments, county sheriff offices, FBI, ICE, prosecutors&#8217; offices, labor boards, family courts, and others. Not all agencies certify, and some have policies against signing U visa certifications.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Qualifying_Crimes_and_USCIS_Standards\"><\/span>Qualifying Crimes and USCIS Standards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>USCIS evaluates the qualifying crime using a &#8220;preponderance of the evidence&#8221; standard. You do not need a police report in every case, though having one significantly strengthens your petition. Evidence that USCIS accepts includes police reports, court records, restraining orders, medical records showing injuries, witness statements, photos of injuries, and declarations from advocates or counselors.<\/p>\n<p>According to USCIS data, the most common qualifying crimes in U visa petitions are domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. USCIS approved approximately 9,600 U visas in FY2024, reaching nearly the full 10,000 annual cap. Because of the cap, all remaining petitions go on the waiting list.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_U_Visa_Waiting_List_and_Bona_Fide_Determination_BFD\"><\/span>The U Visa Waiting List and Bona Fide Determination (BFD)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The U visa annual cap of 10,000 has created an enormous backlog. As of FY2025, USCIS reported over 350,000 pending U visa petitions on the waiting list. At the current rate of 10,000 approvals per year, the theoretical wait exceeds 35 years \u2014 though in practice USCIS works through bona fide petitions in priority order and some petitioners withdraw or become ineligible.<\/p>\n<p>To address the humanitarian impact of this wait, USCIS implemented the Bona Fide Determination (BFD) policy in June 2021. Under BFD:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>USCIS reviews your Form I-918 for completeness and apparent credibility (the &#8220;bona fide&#8221; check)<\/li>\n<li>If your petition passes the BFD review, USCIS issues a &#8220;bona fide determination&#8221; notice<\/li>\n<li>You receive a two-year grant of deferred action<\/li>\n<li>You become eligible to apply for work authorization (EAD) using Form I-765<\/li>\n<li>BFD is renewable every two years while you wait on the list<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>BFD work authorization typically takes 3-7 months to process. This is a critical protection \u2014 it means you can legally work in the US even though you may wait years for the U visa itself. For information on employment authorization documents, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/employment-authorization-ead\/\">EAD guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure style=\"margin:28px 0;\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.pexels.com\/photos\/5668858\/pexels-photo-5668858.jpeg?auto=compress&#038;cs=tinysrgb&#038;w=1200&#038;h=630&#038;fit=crop\" alt=\"Crime victim consulting with immigration attorney about U visa certification and law enforcement cooperation\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:6px;\" \/><figcaption style=\"font-size:13px;color:#555;margin-top:6px;text-align:center;\">Obtaining the law enforcement certification (Form I-918B) is the most challenging step in the U visa process.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_a_U_Visa_Step-by-Step\"><\/span>How to Apply for a U Visa: Step-by-Step<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The U visa application process has several stages, beginning with the law enforcement certification and ending with USCIS approval or placement on the waiting list.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Obtain_Form_I-918B_Law_Enforcement_Certification\"><\/span>Step 1: Obtain Form I-918B Law Enforcement Certification<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Contact the law enforcement agency that investigated your case \u2014 police department, sheriff&#8217;s office, prosecutor&#8217;s office, or other certifying entity. Request that a certifying official complete Form I-918 Supplement B. The official must confirm that you are, were, or are likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution. Some agencies have dedicated U visa certification units; others require advocacy from an attorney or victim services organization.<\/p>\n<p>If one agency refuses, you can seek certification from another agency involved in your case. Persistence matters here \u2014 many successful U visa petitions required multiple attempts to obtain certification.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Complete_Form_I-918_Main_Petition\"><\/span>Step 2: Complete Form I-918 (Main Petition)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Form I-918 is the main U visa petition filed with USCIS. It collects biographical information, immigration history, information about the qualifying crime, and details about your cooperation with law enforcement. File Form I-918 with:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Completed Form I-918 Supplement B (law enforcement certification) \u2014 must be signed within the past 6 months<\/li>\n<li>Personal statement describing the crime, abuse suffered, and cooperation with law enforcement<\/li>\n<li>Evidence of the qualifying crime (police reports, medical records, court records)<\/li>\n<li>Evidence of substantial abuse (medical records, therapy notes, photos)<\/li>\n<li>Two passport-style photos<\/li>\n<li>Copy of passport and any prior immigration documents<\/li>\n<li>Form I-192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as Nonimmigrant) if you have inadmissibility grounds \u2014 includes a fee of $930 or fee waiver<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There is no filing fee for Form I-918. You may also file for a fee waiver on Form I-912 if you cannot afford the I-192 fee.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_File_for_Derivative_Beneficiaries_if_applicable\"><\/span>Step 3: File for Derivative Beneficiaries (if applicable)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your qualifying family members can receive derivative U visa status. File Form I-918 Supplement A for each derivative beneficiary. Qualifying family members depend on your age:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you are <strong>under 21<\/strong>: spouse, children, parents, and unmarried siblings under 18<\/li>\n<li>If you are <strong>21 or older<\/strong>: spouse and children only<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Await_BFD_Review_and_EAD\"><\/span>Step 4: Await BFD Review and EAD<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>After filing, USCIS conducts the bona fide determination review. If approved, you receive a BFD notice and can file for work authorization (Form I-765). Processing for the BFD EAD takes approximately 3-7 months as of 2026.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Await_U_Visa_Approval_or_Cap_Queue\"><\/span>Step 5: Await U Visa Approval or Cap Queue<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If a visa number is available, USCIS approves the petition and issues U nonimmigrant status for 4 years (extensions possible in certain circumstances). If not, your petition goes on the waiting list in priority date order. You keep your BFD work authorization while waiting.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"U_Visa_to_Green_Card_The_Path_to_Lawful_Permanent_Residence\"><\/span>U Visa to Green Card: The Path to Lawful Permanent Residence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After three years in lawful U nonimmigrant status, you can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status). To adjust status from U nonimmigrant status, you must demonstrate:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You have been physically present in the United States for a continuous period of at least three years while in U status<\/li>\n<li>You have not unreasonably refused to provide assistance to law enforcement since your U status was granted<\/li>\n<li>Granting adjustment is in the public or national interest (a favorable discretion finding by USCIS)<\/li>\n<li>You are not inadmissible on certain bars (or have received a waiver)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The path from U nonimmigrant status to green card is commonly called &#8220;U to LPR&#8221; (lawful permanent resident). After receiving your green card through U status, you can apply for naturalization after the standard period (3 or 5 years). See our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/naturalization-citizenship\/\">Naturalization guide<\/a> for details on the citizenship process.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"U_Visa_vs_T_Visa_Key_Differences\"><\/span>U Visa vs. T Visa: Key Differences<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;margin:16px 0;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background:#1a56db;color:#fff;\">\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Factor<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">U Visa<\/th>\n<th style=\"padding:10px 14px;text-align:left;border:1px solid #ddd;\">T Visa<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Who qualifies<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Victims of qualifying crimes<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Victims of severe trafficking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Annual cap<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">10,000<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">5,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Law enforcement cert<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Required (I-918B)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Helpful but not always required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background:#f9f9f9;\">\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Status duration<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">4 years<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">4 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">Green card eligibility<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">After 3 years of U status<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:9px 14px;border:1px solid #ddd;\">After 3 years of T status<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Challenges_and_How_Atlas_Legal_Can_Help\"><\/span>Common Challenges and How Atlas Legal Can Help<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The U visa process involves significant challenges that often require experienced legal guidance. The most common obstacles include: law enforcement agencies refusing to certify, inadmissibility grounds requiring an I-192 waiver, gathering sufficient evidence of substantial abuse, and navigating the BFD waiting period. Atlas Legal Immigration in Schaumburg, Illinois, has assisted U visa petitioners from over 10 countries and works with victim advocacy organizations throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.<\/p>\n<p>If you are in removal proceedings, the U visa can also be raised as a defense \u2014 see our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/deportation-defense-removal-proceedings-2026-guide\/\">Deportation Defense guide<\/a> for how pending U visa petitions interact with removal proceedings. For related family immigration petitions, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/marriage-green-card\/\">Marriage Green Card guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure style=\"margin:28px 0;\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.pexels.com\/photos\/3760263\/pexels-photo-3760263.jpeg?auto=compress&#038;cs=tinysrgb&#038;w=1200&#038;h=630&#038;fit=crop\" alt=\"U visa applicant meeting with immigration attorney to review Form I-918 petition documents\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"width:100%;height:auto;border-radius:6px;\" \/><figcaption style=\"font-size:13px;color:#555;margin-top:6px;text-align:center;\">Atlas Legal Immigration provides comprehensive U visa representation from certification through the green card application.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<section itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_U_Visa_2026\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions: U Visa 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_U_visa_processing_take_in_2026\"><\/span>How long does U visa processing take in 2026?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">The U visa waiting list currently exceeds 350,000 petitions, and only 10,000 U visas are issued per year. Full approval of U nonimmigrant status can take 5-7 years or longer. However, USCIS grants bona fide determination (BFD) status with work authorization in approximately 3-7 months after filing, allowing you to work legally while waiting on the list.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_get_a_green_card_through_a_U_visa\"><\/span>Can I get a green card through a U visa?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">Yes. After three years in lawful U nonimmigrant status, you can file Form I-485 to adjust status to lawful permanent resident (green card). You must demonstrate continuous physical presence in the US for three years, continued cooperation with law enforcement, and that your adjustment is in the public or national interest. After receiving your green card, you can eventually apply for US citizenship.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_the_police_refused_to_sign_my_U_visa_certification\"><\/span>What if the police refused to sign my U visa certification?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">If one law enforcement agency refuses to sign Form I-918B, you can seek certification from another agency involved in your case \u2014 including prosecutors, labor authorities, family courts, federal agencies like the FBI or ICE, or other certifying entities. An immigration attorney or victim advocacy organization can help identify alternative certifying agencies and advocate on your behalf.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_my_family_members_get_U_visa_status_too\"><\/span>Can my family members get U visa status too?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">Yes. Qualifying family members can receive derivative U visa status through Form I-918 Supplement A. If you are under 21, your spouse, children, parents, and unmarried siblings under 18 may qualify. If you are 21 or older, your spouse and children may qualify. Derivative family members get the same status and work authorization as the principal U visa holder.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n<h3 itemprop=\"name\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_the_crime_need_to_have_been_reported_to_police_for_a_U_visa\"><\/span>Does the crime need to have been reported to police for a U visa?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p itemprop=\"text\">Not necessarily. While a police report strengthens a U visa petition, USCIS can accept other forms of evidence including medical records, therapist notes, photos of injuries, and witness statements. The key requirement is that a certifying official from a law enforcement or qualifying agency is willing to sign Form I-918B confirming your helpfulness to their investigation or prosecution.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Article\",\n      \"headline\": \"U Visa for Crime Victims 2026: Eligibility, Requirements, and How to Apply\",\n      \"description\": \"The U visa protects immigrant crime victims who help law enforcement. Only 10,000 U visas are issued per year. USCIS issues work authorization via bona fide determination while you wait on the 350,000+ waiting list.\",\n      \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"Atlas Legal Immigration\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\"},\n      \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"Atlas Legal Immigration\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\"},\n      \"datePublished\": \"2026-04-18\",\n      \"dateModified\": \"2026-04-18\"\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n      \"mainEntity\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long does U visa processing take in 2026?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The U visa waiting list exceeds 350,000 petitions. Only 10,000 U visas are issued per year. Full approval can take 5-7 years. However, USCIS grants bona fide determination (BFD) status with work authorization in 3-7 months after filing.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I get a green card through a U visa?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. After three years in lawful U nonimmigrant status, you can file Form I-485 to adjust status to lawful permanent resident. You must show continuous US presence for three years and continued cooperation with law enforcement.\"}},\n        {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What if the police refused to sign my U visa certification?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"You can seek certification from another agency involved in your case \u2014 prosecutors, labor authorities, family courts, FBI, or ICE. An immigration attorney or victim advocacy organization can help identify alternative certifying agencies.\"}}\n      ]\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"HowTo\",\n      \"name\": \"How to Apply for a U Visa\",\n      \"step\": [\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Obtain Form I-918B Law Enforcement Certification\", \"text\": \"Contact the law enforcement agency that investigated your case and request a certifying official to complete Form I-918 Supplement B.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Complete and File Form I-918\", \"text\": \"File Form I-918 with the certification, personal statement, evidence of qualifying crime, and evidence of substantial abuse. No filing fee.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Include Derivative Beneficiaries\", \"text\": \"File Form I-918 Supplement A for qualifying family members who will receive derivative U status.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Await Bona Fide Determination and EAD\", \"text\": \"USCIS reviews your petition for bona fide determination. If approved, file Form I-765 for work authorization while waiting on the visa cap list.\"},\n        {\"@type\": \"HowToStep\", \"name\": \"Apply for Green Card After 3 Years\", \"text\": \"After three years in U nonimmigrant status, file Form I-485 to adjust status to lawful permanent resident.\"}\n      ]\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script><br \/>\n<\/article>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The U visa protects immigrant crime victims who help law enforcement. Only 10,000 U visas are issued per year, creating a waiting list of 350,000+. USCIS issues work authorization via bona fide determination while you wait. Complete 2026 guide to eligibility, certification, and the path to a green card.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1344,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[331],"tags":[338,332,333,334,336,335,337],"class_list":["post-1345","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-humanitarian-immigration","tag-u-nonimmigrant-status","tag-u-visa-2026","tag-u-visa-crime-victim","tag-u-visa-eligibility","tag-u-visa-green-card","tag-u-visa-processing-time-2026","tag-u-visa-waiting-list-2026"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1345","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1345"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1345\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1346,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1345\/revisions\/1346"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1344"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1345"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1345"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theatlaslegal.com\/tr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1345"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}