U Visa Process for Crime Victims: Veronica’s Story of Courage
[Please note: The Client’s name and case key details may have been altered to preserve the identity of the client. This Success Story about U visa process for crime victims is not intended to be an offer of service or case plan. Every case is unique. The Success Story is presented for information purposes only.]
From 2014 to 2020, our Columbus office worked with Veronica, an undocumented widow from Mexico, to secure a U visa. This visa was created to help victims of crime—or their immediate family members—who assist law enforcement in prosecuting criminals.
In Veronica’s case, her late husband, Ted, owned an automotive body shop south of Columbus. Ted was honest but aware of organized crime in the area, where stolen cars were stripped and parts sold to other shops. Before his sudden death in 2013, Ted kept Veronica informed about these illegal activities. Veronica, who managed the front office, had witnessed suspicious dealings herself.
Threats and Fear
After Ted’s passing, criminals visited Veronica, slapped her, and threatened harm to her and her young son, David, if she spoke to authorities. Despite the danger, Veronica worked with local police to report suspicious activities. Investigators suggested she apply for a U visa so she could remain in the U.S. legally and continue running Ted’s business without fear of deportation.
Facing Immigration Challenges
Veronica’s case was complex. She was both the widow and mother of U.S. citizens, and David had medical issues. However, she faced deportation due to prior illegal entries and an ICE claim that she falsely claimed U.S. citizenship—a charge Veronica strongly denied.
Furthermore, our team successfully refuted ICE’s claim and presented evidence of Veronica’s psychological trauma caused by threats and violence. Her cooperation proved invaluable to prosecutors, who made significant progress against organized crime.
The U Visa Process
In 2015, after obtaining the lead prosecutor’s signature, we filed Form I-918 (Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status) and Form I-192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant). These filings halted deportation proceedings and began the U visa process for crime victims like Veronica.
Due to USCIS backlogs, approval took until late 2020. By then, thanks in part to Veronica’s courage, most criminals were behind bars. Veronica continued managing her business successfully—a testament to her resilience and determination. If you or someone you know needs help with the U visa process for crime victims, contact us today. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.