Benefits for Non-Immigrant Victims of Criminal Activity

Pursuant to the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act, the U non-immigrant status was created by the United States Congress. Persons who are included under the U classification are foreigners who are victims of criminal activity. As published in the Federal Register, as of October 2007, non-immigrants under the U classification will be granted benefits if they participate in assisting government authorities in prosecuting and investigating criminal activities.

According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a lot of foreigners who are witnesses or victims of criminal activity are hesitant to step forward and notify the authorities because they are unsure if they will be getting benefits or help due to their alien status. These new benefits as mentioned by the USCIS are meant to protect innocent lives, and at the same time effectively reduce criminal activity along with the proper prosecution of the perpetrators.

How is a victim of criminal activity eligible to apply for U non-immigrant status? He or she should present evidence of having mental or physical damage by a crime that was deemed illegal and committed within the United States. The mental and physical abuse can be assessed by a health professional. The victim should also provide substantial information regarding the said crime, and that he or she is willing to testify and help government authorities in investigating the crime.

What are the said benefits of persons approved for U non-immigrant classification? They can be accompanied by immediate family, such as parent, unmarried sibling below the age of 18, spouse, or children, and can remain in the United States for up to four years. During this time, the government is to assist the victim by giving him or her access to organizations that offer assistance for healthcare and employment opportunities. According to USCIS, an estimated 10,000 of these U non-immigrant visas are made available every year, but this does not cover that of the family members of the victims of criminal activity.

More details of the qualifications for U non-immigrant classification will be updated by the USCIS, and will be released after 60 days upon this announcement. To learn more about the application procedures and forms to be submitted in order to avail of U non-immigrant status, check the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more details at http://www.uscis.gov. Applications forms and mailing addresses can also be viewed at this site.