USCIS has now approved the maximum amount of U visas available for
Fiscal Year 2014. This is the fifth year in a row that USCIS has reached
the statutory maximum since the U visa program began in 2008. Over
89,600 victims and their family members have received the U visa since
2008. Even though the statutory limit has been reached, USCIS will
continue accepting U visas. Those who are eligible for the visa but are
not granted the visa will be placed on a waiting list to receive the
visa when it is once again available.
Each year, a total of 10,000 U visas are made available for victims of
certain crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse
and are willing to help law enforcement officials investigate and/or
prosecute the crimes. A U visa requires a certification of assistance
from law enforcement.
