U Visa for Immigrant Victims of Crime: A Guide for Milwaukee Residents

f you or someone you know is an undocumented immigrant who has been the victim of a serious crime in Milwaukee, there may be a path to legal status through the U Visa. As a Milwaukee immigration attorney, I often work with brave individuals who have suffered trauma but are now seeking safety, stability, and justice. This blog post will help you understand what the U Visa is, who qualifies, how the process works, and why working with a local immigration lawyer can make all the difference.

What Is a U Visa?

The U Visa is a special nonimmigrant visa for victims of certain crimes who:

• Have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse, and

• Are willing to assist law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity.

Congress created the U Visa to encourage undocumented victims to come forward without fear of deportation. Once approved, a U Visa allows you to legally live and work in the U.S. for up to 4 years and may lead to a green card.

Who Is Eligible for a U Visa in Milwaukee?

To be eligible, you must:

• Have been the victim of a qualifying crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, or trafficking

• Have information about the crime

• Be helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution

• Have suffered substantial harm as a result

• Be admissible to the U.S. or apply for a waiver

Even if the crime occurred years ago, or you’ve left the U.S. and returned, you may still qualify. Crimes must have occurred within the U.S. or violated U.S. laws—Milwaukee Police Department reports, court records, and local witness statements all play a role.

Common U Visa Qualifying Crimes in Wisconsin

Some of the crimes that may qualify for U Visa protection include:

• Domestic violence

• Sexual assault or rape

• Felonious assault

• Human trafficking

• Abduction or kidnapping

• Stalking

• Witness tampering

If you're unsure whether your case qualifies, a consultation with a local immigration attorney can help clarify your options.

The U Visa Application Process

1. Form I-918 – This is the main U Visa petition form.

2. Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) – Must be signed by a Milwaukee law enforcement agency, confirming your helpfulness.

3. Evidence of Harm – Medical records, psychological evaluations, police reports, and sworn statements.

4. Personal Statement – Describing the crime, its impact on your life, and your cooperation with authorities.

Processing times can be long—sometimes several years—but applying places you in deferred action status, protecting you from deportation in the meantime.

Can Family Members Apply Too?

Yes. If you are the principal applicant, you may also be able to petition for qualifying family members:

• Spouse and children (if you’re over 21)

• Parents and siblings (if you’re under 21)

Why Work With a Milwaukee Immigration Lawyer for Your U Visa?

The U Visa process is complex, emotionally sensitive, and document-intensive. Working with a Milwaukee immigration attorney helps ensure:

• Proper handling of local police and court documentation

• Accurate preparation of your personal statement

• Timely and complete filing with USCIS

• Advocacy if complications arise

We also have relationships with local social service agencies, counselors, and law enforcement contacts that can support your case.

Local Support Resources in Milwaukee

Victims of crime in Milwaukee may also benefit from support services such as:

• Sojourner Family Peace Center

• Milwaukee Women’s Center

• Voces de la Frontera

• Legal Action of Wisconsin

These agencies can help with shelter, counseling, and additional advocacy during your U Visa process.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been a victim of a serious crime in Milwaukee and are undocumented, you do not have to suffer in silence. The U Visa offers hope, safety, and a path to permanent residency. At our Milwaukee immigration law office, we are here to guide you through the process with compassion and confidentiality.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to talk about your U Visa eligibility? Contact our Milwaukee immigration law firm today. We offer private, bilingual consultations and are committed to helping victims rebuild their lives with dignity and legal protection.

Your Future. Our Mission.