You’ve been living here undocumented for years after escaping an abusive situation back home. Finally, you worked up the courage to report the crimes to the police and apply for a U visa. But now you’re stuck waiting and wondering—how long does it actually take to get approved? We get it, the process is confusing and frustrating. But we’ll break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect. From filing to approval, we’ll give you the real timeline based on current processing times so you can plan ahead. We’ll even throw in some pro tips to help speed things up. Read on for the inside scoop on U visa processing times from start to finish.
Understanding the U Visa Application Process
The U visa application process typically takes several months to complete. First, you’ll need to submit Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, along with supporting evidence like police reports, court documents or affidavits from witnesses.
Filing the Petition
Once USCIS receives your petition, they will review it to ensure it’s complete. If anything is missing, they’ll send you a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for more details. Be sure to respond to any RFEs promptly to avoid delays.
Background Checks and Interviews
After accepting your petition, USCIS conducts background checks and may schedule an interview. The interview allows you to provide sworn testimony and additional evidence to support your claim. USCIS uses all the information to determine if you meet the requirements for a U visa.
Final Decision
If approved, you’ll receive your U visa which is valid for up to 4 years. You can then apply to adjust status to become a lawful permanent resident. If denied, USCIS will send you a formal decision explaining why and your options for appealing the decision.
The U visa process involves many steps and can feel overwhelming. But by submitting a strong petition, responding quickly to any requests, and working with an immigration attorney, you have the best chance of getting approved and gaining status in the United States. Staying informed and patient through what can be a long process will make it much less stressful in the end.
What Is the Average U Visa Processing Time?
So you’ve applied for a U visa, but now you’re wondering how long it will take to actually get approved. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer. U visa processing times can vary greatly based on several factors.
Typically, U visa applications take between 12 to 24 months to process. However, some applications have been pending for 3 years or more. A lot depends on the current caseload at USCIS. When they receive a surge of applications, processing times slow down. You’ll need patience – this is not a quick process.
Another factor is whether USCIS requests additional evidence. If they need more information from you regarding your application, that can add months to the processing time. It’s best to provide a thorough, well-documented application up front to avoid delays.
Once USCIS approves your U visa, the wait isn’t over yet. Due to a cap on the number of visas issued each year, you’ll be placed on a waiting list. Currently, the wait time is around 5 years. Your minor children under 21 years of age and your spouse will also receive U visas.
While the long wait can be frustrating, try to remain patient and hopeful. A U visa can be life-changing, providing you protection and stability. Stay in close contact with your lawyer or advocate during the processing time. And remember, you have the right to inquire about your case status, so don’t hesitate to contact USCIS with any questions. With time and perseverance, that approval notice will arrive.
How to Check Your U Visa Application Status and Expedite Processing
The U visa application process typically takes several years, but there are a few ways you can check on your application status and possibly speed up the process.###Request case status updates from USCIS The best way to get updates on your U visa application is to contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the agency that handles U visa petitions. You can call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 to speak to an agent about your case status. Be prepared to provide details like your receipt number, petitioner name, and date of birth. The agent should be able to see updates in the USCIS system and let you know if your case has been assigned to an officer yet or if any requests for additional evidence have been issued.
Check case status online
In addition to calling, you can check your U visa case status on the USCIS website. Enter your receipt number, which is the 13-character code provided on the I-918 petition receipt notice. The website will show updates like if your petition has been accepted, if a request for evidence was sent, if your petition is in process or if a decision has been made. While less detailed than speaking to an agent, the website is available 24 hours a day.
Request expedited processing
In some circumstances, you may be able to request that USCIS expedite your U visa petition. Expedited processing means your case will be moved up in the queue and processed faster. You must meet one of the approved reasons for expedite requests, such as severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons or compelling government interest. Work with your immigration attorney to submit a written request for expedite processing along with evidence to support your claim. If granted, your case could be adjudicated in months rather than years.
Following up on your U visa application and taking steps to expedite the process if needed can help provide much-needed peace of mind during what is often a long and difficult wait. While USCIS aims to process U visas as efficiently as possible, demand far exceeds the 10,000 visas allocated each year. Checking in on your case and asking for updates is your right, so don’t hesitate to call USCIS or submit an expedite request if your situation warrants it.
U Visa Processing Time FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions on Timelines
U visas are nonimmigrant visas set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of those crimes. If you’ve applied for a U visa, you probably have questions about how long the processing will take. Here are some of the top FAQs regarding U visa processing times:
USCIS aims to review U visa petitions within 6 months, but processing times can vary and may take up to 2-5 years due to the high demand and complexity of cases. The time needed to review also depends on whether your petition requires further evidence or interviews. You can check the USCIS website for the latest processing timelines.
Several factors can cause delays in U visa processing:
•High volume of petitions: USCIS receives thousands of U visa petitions each year, far exceeding the 10,000 available visas.
•Background checks: Security checks and fingerprint clearances add time.
•Requests for evidence: If USCIS needs more evidence to support your petition, they will issue a request for evidence which you must respond to, adding months to the process.
•Interviews: Some petitions require in-person interviews which have to be scheduled, further slowing things down.
The U visa process understandably takes a long time due to high demand and a fixed quota. While waiting, focus on cooperating fully with law enforcement and try to remain patient. With persistence, you will get there!
Conclusion
So there you have it. The U visa application process is long and complicated. But if you qualify and have a compelling case, it’s worth pursuing. Just make sure to be patient, diligent in providing evidence, and work closely with your attorney. The wait can be frustrating, but the protection and benefits are life-changing for immigrant victims of crime. Don’t lose hope during the long application timeline. With persistence and the right legal support, your new life in America lies ahead. We’re rooting for you.