The United States Department of Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) published a new policy containing the expansion of access to U visas in the United States.
U visas are for immigrants who are victims of specific types of crime and who help the police in the investigation. To be eligible, applicants must be victims of violence domestic violence, human trafficking, or other serious crimes. Some relatives of the victims also may apply. U Visa provides employment authorizations and allow beneficiaries apply for permanent residents after three years.
Now, it is normal to wait more than five years to receive employment authorization. USCIS announced this new policy to speed up the process. Known as Determinations of Authenticity, the new process will give victims of crimes in the US earlier access to employment authorizations. USCIS will issue employment authorization and grant deferred action to Petitioners with authentic, or "bona fide," U visa petitions. Requests need to include a certification from a law enforcement agency that the petitioner was the victim of a crime and that the victim could be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
USCIS Acting Director Tracy Renaud said “Crime victims need a way to support themselves as they heal and continue their search for justice. East Authenticity Determination process will allow U visa petitioners to work while they remain safe in the United States, providing valuable support to agencies law enforcement agency to detect, investigate, or prosecute serious crimes committed against survived or witnessed. "
Because of this new policy, crime victims waiting for their U visas can stabilize and rebuild their lives while collaborating with law enforcement agencies.
Mil Mujeres in action:
We are an organization that provides legal services to those who apply for visas in the USA. If you are eligible for a U visa or have questions about the new policy, we can help. Do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you.