Different types of visas will take different lengths of time to be approved due to the nature of the visa, and how long you will be staying in the country you are applying for.
When we look specifically at a U-Visa, we know this can take upwards of a year to be approved. Due to the nature of the visa, it would be beneficial for the applicant to have this approved quicker to get out of danger.
Below, we will discuss what a U-Visa is, who is eligible, and what you can do to help speed up your application.
What Is A U-Visa?
The U-Visa is a visa that can be applied for by someone living in a country where they are at risk of danger. This visa is a nonimmigrant status visa. U-Visas will allow someone to move from the country they are currently in to the USA without having an immigrant status; this would mean they could not be deported.
Who Is It For?
A U-Visa is for people who have been abused either physically or mentally or have been victims of certain types of crime. You will only be eligible for this visa if you are working with or helpful to the law enforcement or government of the country you will be leaving.
It is important when applying for the U-VIsa that you can prove that you suffered abuse as a result of a crime; if you cannot, you will be unlikely to succeed in this application. You must also cooperate with law enforcement in both your country and the USA.
How To Get A Speedy Response
The U-Visa has one of the most lengthy response times for a visa you can apply for due to the proof you need to obtain the visa and the fact that it has nonimmigrant status. One way you can ensure that your application is processed in the shortest time possible is to make sure that all of your paperwork is correct.
Additionally, you should prove early in the process that you are working with law enforcement and government agencies that require you to do so.
Another way you can speed up your application is to work with a company like Pro se Pro. These are people who understand the visa process, and although they are not lawyers, they can help with visa applications.
You may still require some legal advice or representation as you go through your visa process. However, having the help of someone who understands the visa process and can ensure your paperwork is filled in correctly and sent to the correct people is best. This type of company can help reduce the waiting time for your visa but cannot give legal advice.
Summary
If you qualify for a U-Visa and do not want to wait the 18 months or more that it can take for your application to be assessed or approved, it may be worth working with a lawyer.
Also, a company like Pro se Pro can help speed up your application by giving you the information you need to fill out correctly and send off your application. Remember to also work with any legal professional and government officials who need you to due to the crime you have experienced.
