WASHINGTON – Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis recently announced that the U.S. Department of Labor will begin exercising its authority to certify U Nonimmigrant Status Visas. The U Visa was created under the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act of 2000 to help victims of certain criminal activities who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to aid law enforcement officials in the investigation or prosecution of such crimes.

Qualifying crimes violating state or federal law include: abduction, involuntary servitude, kidnapping, abusive sexual contact, blackmail, felonious assault, domestic violence, extortion, false imprisonment, female genital mutilation, hostage-taking, incest, manslaughter, murder, obstruction of justice, peonage, perjury, prostitution, rape, sexual assault, trafficking, sexual exploitation, slave trade, torture, witness tampering, unlawful criminal restraint and other related crimes. Individuals who are approved for the U Visa may remain in the U.S. for up to four years and may become eligible for permanent residency.

During workplace investigations, the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor will identify potential applicants for the U Visa. Other requirements for the U Visa include certification by a federal law enforcement agency or official that the beneficiary has assisted, will assist or will likely assist with the prosecution or investigation of the criminal activity.