U Visa Attorney in Waco, Texas
Protection for Crime Victims
You Helped Law Enforcement. The Law Can Help You.
The U visa exists for victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered substantial harm and who have been, or are willing to be, helpful to police or prosecutors. It provides lawful status, a work permit and, after three years, the opportunity to apply for a green card. Qualifying family members can often be included.
The process depends on a certification from a law enforcement agency, careful documentation of the harm you suffered and patience, because the number of U visas is capped each year and the wait is long. Abogados Vasquez Law Firm requests certifications from Waco Police, the McLennan County Sheriff's Office, the District Attorney and other agencies, prepares Form I-918 and the personal statement, and helps you obtain work authorization while your case waits in line.
What We Handle
How We Help With U Visas
Qualifying Crimes
The list includes domestic violence, sexual assault, felonious assault, kidnapping, human trafficking, extortion, witness tampering and several others, along with attempts and conspiracies. The crime must have occurred in the United States or violated U.S. law. We review what happened to you and whether it fits.
Law Enforcement Certification (Form I-918B)
A police department, prosecutor, judge or certain other agencies must certify that you were helpful. We prepare the request, provide the agency with the information it needs and follow up. Certifications from agencies in McLennan County and across Texas are a regular part of our practice.
Documenting Substantial Harm
Physical or mental harm must be shown through medical, counseling or psychological records, your own declaration and statements from people who know you.
Waivers
Many U visa applicants have immigration violations or old records that would otherwise bar them. Form I-192 asks USCIS to waive those issues in the public interest, and preparing it well is often the difference in a case.
Family Members
Depending on your age, your spouse, children, parents and unmarried siblings under 18 may be included as derivatives, even if they are abroad.
Work Permits and the Green Card
Because of the annual cap, approvable cases are placed on a waiting list and may receive deferred action and a work permit in the meantime. After three years in U status you may apply for a green card. We manage each stage.
Our Process
What to Expect
- 1
Consultation
We review your immigration history, ask the questions that matter and tell you honestly which options may be available to you.
- 2
Case Preparation
We assemble your application, supporting evidence and translations, and prepare you for biometrics and interviews.
- 3
Filing and Follow-Through
We file with USCIS or the immigration court, track deadlines, respond to requests for evidence and keep you informed at every step.
What to Expect
U visa processing is measured in years, not months, because of the statutory cap. USCIS first conducts a bona fide determination review; applicants who pass may receive a work permit and deferred action while they wait. Your status in the U.S. is protected during that time. We keep your address current with USCIS, renew work permits as needed and prepare the green card application when you become eligible.
Your Waco Immigration Attorney
Work With an Attorney Devoted to Immigration Law
Esmeralda Sosa SerratosImmigration Attorney
Esmeralda Sosa Serratos is a Texas-licensed immigration attorney with over a decade of experience dedicated to representing immigrants and their families, with a particular focus on removal defense, immigration litigation, and complex immigration matters.
Where We Serve
Serving Waco and Central Texas
Our office is on Lake Air Drive in Waco, a short drive from downtown, Baylor University and the McLennan County Courthouse. We serve clients across Waco, Bellmead, Woodway, Hewitt, Robinson, Lorena, McGregor, West and the surrounding communities of McLennan County, as well as Temple, Killeen, Hillsboro and the rest of Central Texas. Consultations are available in person, by phone or by video, in English or Spanish.
Waco Office
Talk to an Attorney Today
Call our Waco office and speak with our bilingual team in English or Spanish.
Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions
FAQ
U Visa FAQs
Do I need to have reported the crime to the police?
You must have been helpful, or be willing to be helpful, to a law enforcement agency investigating or prosecuting the crime. Reporting the crime is usually the first step. If you have not reported it, talk to us about how to do so safely.
What if the crime happened years ago?
There is no deadline for filing a U visa petition, but the agency must still be willing to certify your helpfulness. Older cases can qualify.
Can I get a work permit while I wait?
Many applicants receive deferred action and a work permit after USCIS's initial review, even though the visa itself is not yet available.
Can my family be included?
Often, yes. Spouses and children can be included; applicants under 21 may also include parents and unmarried siblings under 18.
What if I have an old deportation order or entered without a visa?
These issues can usually be addressed with a waiver (Form I-192). They do not automatically disqualify you.
Contact Us
Start With a Consultation
Whether you were hurt in an accident, need help with an immigration matter or are facing a criminal charge, the first step is a conversation. Tell us what happened, and we will explain your options in plain language, in English or Spanish.
Call (254) 900-7947 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and talk with our bilingual team. Se habla español.
Call Us Today
(254) 900-7947Call (254) 900-7947Se Habla Español
- Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Office: 1215 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710
Get directions