​​​​Step 1: Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918 Supplement B)

The foundation of every U visa case is the law enforcement certification, also known as Form I-918 Supplement B. This certification must be completed and signed by a qualifying law enforcement agency, prosecutor, judge, or other authorized official. It confirms that the applicant was a victim of a qualifying crime, suffered substantial physical or mental harm, and has been helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

 

Obtaining this certification is often the most challenging part of a U visa case. Law enforcement agencies are not required to sign the certification, and policies vary widely by jurisdiction. Timing also matters, as some agencies will only sign while a case is open or shortly after it closes. Legal advocacy, proper documentation, and clear communication with the certifying agency are critical at this stage. Without an approved law enforcement certification, a U visa petition cannot be filed.

​

Attorney Fee: $2000

✓ Processing Time: 2–9 months.

✓ Payment plans available in up to three installments, with a 3% processing fee.

✓ No Government Filing Fees for Law Enforcement Certification

​​

​​

​​​Step 2: U Visa Petition (Form I-918)

​Once the law enforcement certification is secured, the next step is filing the U visa petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition includes detailed evidence showing that the applicant meets all legal requirements, including proof of victimization, substantial harm, cooperation with law enforcement, and eligibility for the visa. Applicants may also request waivers for immigration violations, such as unlawful entry or overstays, as part of the U visa process.

 

Due to a statutory cap, only 10,000 U visas may be approved each year for principal applicants. As a result, most applicants are placed on a waiting list after USCIS determines that the case is approvable. While waiting, USCIS may grant deferred action (temporary status) and issue work authorization, allowing the applicant to remain in the United States and work legally while waiting for the U visa to become available. U visa processing times are lengthy and often span several years, but approval provides lawful status, protection from removal, and the ability to include certain qualifying family members in the application.​

​​​

Attorney Fee: $2000

✓ Processing Time: 12–48 months.

✓ Payment plans available in up to three installments, with a 3% processing fee.

✓ No Government Filing Fees for U-Visa Petition

​​

​​

​​​Step 3: Green Card Through the U Visa

​After holding a U visa status for three years, applicants may become eligible to apply for a green card. To qualify, the applicant must show continued cooperation with law enforcement (unless excused or already did), good moral character, and that remaining in the United States is justified on humanitarian grounds, family unity, or public interest. The green card application is filed through adjustment of status, and USCIS reviews both the original U visa history and the applicant’s conduct during their time in U status. Once approved, the applicant becomes a lawful permanent resident and may later apply for U.S. citizenship if all requirements are met.

​​

Attorney Fee: $2000

✓ Processing Time: 6–24 months.

✓ Payment plans available in up to three installments, with a 3% processing fee.

✓ Government filing fees are not included in the service fees. 

✓ Additional fees may apply if waiver(s) is required.

​

​​

​

Total Attorney Fee: $6000

✓ You may retain our firm on a step-by-step basis as the case progresses.

​

At Dream Immigration Law, we are committed to helping crime victims navigate the U visa process with clarity, confidentiality, and respect. Our goal is to protect your status, support your long-term stability, and help you move forward toward permanent residency.