Immigration Issues

Many immigrants who are victims of crime are afraid to get help because they believe they will be deported. But there are protections for legal and undocumented crime victims.

If you need immediate help and need to report a crime, call 911.

Need help understanding legal terms? Please see the NY Court Help Glossary.

Visit the Hotlines page for national and New York State resources.

S Visa

S Visa

If you have information about a crime or criminal organization, including victims of a criminal group, you may be eligible for a S Visa. This temporary visa would allow you to travel to the United States to participate in a criminal trial as a witness. People who have been granted S Visas may also be eligible to become lawful permanent residents after travelling to the United States and assisting law enforcement.

A state or federal law enforcement official must apply for this visa and for permanent residency for you.  You will be required to cooperate with law enforcement and live under certain restrictions before this visa is granted, and any cooperation agreement must be completed before an application for lawful permanent residence is filed.

If you are assisting in an investigation or prosecution, talk to a police officer or prosecutor about obtaining a S Visa, or find more information on the  USCIS website.  

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