The U nonimmigrant visa, commonly known as the U visa, is a form of immigration relief designed to support victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. Introduced through the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000, the U visa serves as a vital tool for empowering victims and encouraging cooperation with law enforcement.
However, the process of applying for a U visa can be lengthy and complex, often taking years due to backlogs and limited visa availability. During this time, applicants frequently want to know the status of their case. This guide will walk you through all the available methods for checking your U visa status, what each status means, what to expect during the waiting period, and important tips to ensure you stay informed and proactive about your case.
Understanding the U Visa Process
Before diving into how to check the status of your U visa, it’s essential to understand the basic steps involved in the U visa application process:
- Filing Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
- Submitting Form I-918, Supplement B, signed by a law enforcement agency
- Submitting biometric (fingerprint) information
- Waiting for USCIS review and adjudication
- Being placed on the U visa waiting list if visas are not currently available
- Eventually receiving a U visa and possibly applying for adjustment of status (green card) after three years
Checking Your U Visa Status Online
USCIS Case Status Online Tool
The most straightforward method for checking your U visa status is through the official USCIS Case Status Online tool. Here’s how you can use it:
- Locate your 13-character USCIS receipt number. This number begins with three letters (e.g., EAC, WAC, LIN, or SRC) followed by 10 numbers.
- Visit the USCIS Case Status Tool.
- Enter your receipt number without any dashes or spaces.
- Click “Check Status.”
The system will display the latest update on your case, such as whether it is still under review, if any additional documents are needed, or if a decision has been made.
Understanding Status Messages
Some common USCIS status messages include:
- Case Was Received: Your petition has been received and is waiting for initial processing.
- Request for Evidence (RFE) Was Sent: USCIS needs more information to continue processing your case.
- Case Was Approved: Your U visa has been approved.
- Case Was Transferred: Your case has been moved to another USCIS office.
Checking Your U Visa Status by Phone
If you prefer speaking with someone directly, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. Be prepared with your receipt number and personal identification information to verify your identity.
The USCIS representatives can give you basic updates but may not always have detailed information about complex cases. For more specific updates, you may be referred to your local field office or asked to submit a case inquiry online.
Creating a USCIS Online Account
Creating an account with USCIS offers more than just case status checks. It allows you to receive notifications, upload documents, and view case history.
Visit the USCIS MyAccount portal and follow these steps:
- Click “Create an account.”
- Enter your email and follow verification prompts.
- Link your case to your account using your receipt number.
- Enable email or text alerts for real-time updates.
Checking Your U Visa Waitlist Status
Due to the statutory cap of 10,000 U visas issued annually, many applicants are placed on a waiting list. If you are placed on the waitlist, you may be granted deferred action or parole and become eligible to apply for a work permit (Form I-765).
Once you receive notification that you are on the waitlist, you can track your status using your work permit application (EAD) number as well.
Deferred Action Status
If your U visa petition is considered approvable but a visa is not currently available, USCIS may grant you deferred action status and issue a work permit while you wait for a visa to become available.
The work permit itself has its own receipt number and can be tracked similarly through the USCIS case status tool.
Inquiring About Your Case Status
Submitting an Online Case Inquiry
If your case is outside normal processing times, or if you suspect a delay, you can submit an online case inquiry. Go to the USCIS e-Request page and choose from the following:
- Case outside normal processing time
- Did not receive notice by mail
- Typographic error
Using Your Local USCIS Field Office
If necessary, you can schedule an appointment with your local USCIS field office through the InfoPass appointment system. These appointments allow you to meet with a USCIS officer to discuss your case in person.
Checking Case Processing Times
To get an estimate of how long U visa cases are currently taking, check the USCIS Processing Times page:
USCIS Processing Times
Enter your form type (I-918) and the service center handling your case to see the estimated time range. Keep in mind these are averages and your case could take more or less time depending on complexity and volume.
Getting Help from an Attorney or Accredited Representative
Because U visa cases can be delayed for years and involve nuanced legal criteria, it’s often advisable to work with an experienced immigration attorney or accredited representative. They can:
- Follow up with USCIS on your behalf
- Ensure all required documents are submitted correctly
- Track developments in U visa adjudication policy
- Prepare you for potential interviews or responses to RFEs
What Happens After Your U Visa is Approved?
Once your U visa is approved, you will receive a U visa valid for four years. After three years of continuous physical presence in the U.S. on a U visa, you may be eligible to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence) using Form I-485.
Keep all documentation safe and maintain regular contact with your attorney or legal representative to plan the next steps accordingly.
Common Issues and Delays
Several factors can delay your U visa status, including:
- Incomplete or inconsistent application materials
- Requests for additional evidence (RFEs)
- Backlogs due to the 10,000 visa cap per year
- Changes in immigration policy or administrative delays
Conclusion
The U visa process is often long and emotionally taxing, but it provides vital protection for survivors of crime. Staying informed about your case status is critical to ensuring your application moves forward without unnecessary delay. By using the online tools provided by USCIS, creating an account, contacting the USCIS support center, and considering professional legal help, you can better navigate this complex immigration path.
Always ensure you keep copies of all forms, notices, and correspondence from USCIS. And most importantly, don’t lose hope—thousands of applicants receive U visas every year and go on to obtain permanent residency and build a safe life in the United States.
Related topics:
- Check Your U.S. Immigration Case Status | USCIS, Visa & Court Guide
- How Can I Check My DS-260 Status? A Complete Guide
- How to Check Your I-485 Status | Step-by-Step Guide
