U Nonimmigrant Visas
The U visa was created in the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, legislation intended to
strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of domestic
violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes while, at the same time, offering protection
to victims of such crimes. U visas are set aside for victims who have suffered substantial mental or
physical abuse as a result of the criminal activity and are willing to help law enforcement authorities in
the investigation or prosecution of the crime. |