U visas are available for those individuals who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity such as: rape, torture, trafficking, incest, domestic violence, sexual assault, abusive sexual contact, prostitution, slave trade, kidnapping, etc.

Qualifying applicants can file a Form 918 with the USCIS and may have to pay a biometric fee of $80. There is no filing fee. The applicant must include evidence showing that s/he was the victim of qualifying criminal activity; that s/he suffered substantial physical or mental abuse; that s/he has information concerning the qualifying criminal activity; that s/he has been, are being or likely to be helpful in the investigation or prosecution; evidence that the criminal activity is qualifying and violated U.S. law or occurred in the U.S. The applicant must also submit a personal statement.