U Visa Data on I-918 from 2009 to 2015 Released

September 2 2015 – This chart is the data on the number of I-918 Petitions for U Nonimmigrant Status (Victims of Certain Criminal Activities and Family Members) by Fiscal Year, Quarter, and Case Status 2009-2015. From 2009 to 2014, the number of pending U visas has increased around 4 times (from 21,138 to 79,009). Simultaneously the number of application has increased from 2009 to 2014 from 6835 to 26, 039.

Based on this data, we can conclude that the number of U visa applications increase is what is causing the delay in certain U visa cases.  From our experience the increase is probably attributed to the fact that many were unaware of the possibilities of a U visa. Now with aggressive campaigns to protect the victims, the government and other institutions have created an awareness of the potential of U visas.

The U visas are issued to those who are victims of certain crimes. Recently the Department of Labor has also started certifying such visas. For those who think they are victims of certain crimes and have actually assisted the authorities, we recommend you call us at 510 742 5887 to assess your possibilities of a U visa.