U Visa Basics for Law Enforcement
Type
Policy Brief or Report
Year
2018
Level
County
State(s)
All States
Policy Areas
Children & Families, Civil Rights, Economic Justice, Housing, Public Safety
The Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act (VTVPA) passed with bipartisan support in 2000. The VTVPA created the U Visa, a nonimmigrant visa for victims of certain crimes who have been, or are likely to be, helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of a crime. The purpose of this is two-fold. First, it enhances law enforcement's ability to investigate and prosecute crimes. Second, it furthers humanitarian interests by protecting victims of serious crimes.