Many people can find themselves in situations where they feel helpless. Fears of more bad things happening to them may hold them back from seeking the help that may be available to them. In particular, individuals who do not have legal immigration status in Colorado and other parts of the United States may feel as if they have to remain quiet while suffering abuse or another type of harm because they fear deportation.
Fortunately, some individuals may qualify for a special type of visa that could allow them to seek help, report a crime and remain in the country. If you have information about a crime that could help law enforcement, you could have one of the factors needed to qualify for a U visa.
Victim of a crime
No one wants to suffer at the hands of a criminal, but unfortunately, it has happened to you. Looking for any positivity during your ordeal may have seemed impossible, but pursuing a U visa could change your life for the better. In order to qualify for this visa, you would need to meet the following requirements:
- Someone committed a specific crime against you.
- The crime took place while you were in the United States or otherwise violated laws applicable to the United States.
- You experienced significant physical or mental abuse due to the crimes committed against you.
- You can provide information regarding the crime to authorities.
- You helped or will help law enforcement investigate and prosecute the crime.
- You have the ability to enter the United States.
After going over these broad qualification details, it is important that you understand the finer details as well.
What is a qualifying crime?
As mentioned, in order to qualify for a U visa, a specific crime would have to have taken place. Qualifying crimes can include domestic violence, sexual assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, blackmail, human trafficking, stalking and more. If you feel uncertain about whether the crime committed against you qualifies, discussing your situation with an experienced immigration law attorney could be helpful.
Understanding qualifications, contacting police, applying for a U visa and the other steps involved in such a process can seem scary. Fortunately, you do not have to try to handle this situation on your own. Legal assistance could ensure that you have the right information and that you take the proper steps to apply for this visa.