Crime Victim Visa

What is a Crime Victim Visa?

Crime Victim Visa is a special type of visa issued in the United States to allow individuals who have been victimized by certain crimes to remain in the United States in a non-immigrant status and assist in the investigation of the crime. The Crime Victim Visa allows victims to report the crime and contribute to the justice process without fear of deportation.

Crime Victim Visa Requirements

Victim of a Specific Crime: The applicant must be a victim of a specific crime committed in the United States.
Physical or Psychological Harm: Must have suffered significant physical or psychological harm as a result of the victimization.
Cooperation with Authorities: Must have assisted or be willing to assist law enforcement and the justice system in the investigation or prosecution of the offense.

Crime Victim Visa Application Process

Determining Eligibility

The applicant must obtain form I-918 Supplement B from law enforcement or authorized public institutions stating that he or she is a victim of the crime. This document shows that you have cooperated or will cooperate with the authorities.

Preparation of Application Documents

To apply, the I-918 form must be completed and supporting documents must be collected. These documents include:

Documents proving that you are a victim of the crime (police reports, court decisions, etc.).
Documents proving that you have suffered physical or psychological harm.
Your personal statement

Application and Work Permit

Form I-765 for a work permit can also be submitted at the time of application. This will entitle you to work during the application process.

Waiting for Results and Approval

The Crime Victim Visa is limited to 10,000 people per year. Once approved, the visa holder can stay and work in the US for four years. After three years, they are eligible to apply for a green card.

Obtaining a Green Card with a Crime Victim Visa

A Crime Victim Visa holder can apply for a green card after three years in the US. For this

Have resided in the U.S. continuously for three years.
Prove that termination of immigration status would cause undue hardship.