State of U Visa and T Visa Laws

U Visa/T Visa/VAWA
Publication Date

U nonimmigrant status and T nonimmigrant status, often called “U visas” and “T visas,” are humanitarian forms of immigration relief for certain survivors of crime. Both forms of relief have a certification process by which applicants request certification from law enforcement or other government agencies to document their cooperation. In recent years, many states have enacted U and T visa certification legislation in order to increase access to certifications for those who are eligible. This practice advisory provides a summary of the current state statutes regarding certifications as of June 2023.