Chicago, IL asked in Immigration Law for Illinois

Q: can i apply to a u visa if i was robbed with a knife 10 years ago?

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2 Lawyer Answers

A: It depends on whether or not that was reported to law enforcement, whether or not you helped law enforcement during the investigation. I suggest contacting an immigration attorney via phone or email to find out whether or not you are eligible. Many immigration attorneys including me offer free consultations, make use of the consultations.

All the best.

-Shan Potts

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15 years of successful immigration law experience. The answer above is only general in nature cannot be construed as legal advice, given that not enough facts are known. It is your responsibility to retain a lawyer to analyze the facts specific to your particular situation in order to give you specific advice. Specific answers will require cognizance of all pertinent facts about your case. Any answers offered are of a general nature only, and are not meant to create an attorney-client relationship.

A: Two issues may arise in this scenario. First, in order to apply for a U visa you have to obtain a certification from a law enforcement agency that you assisted in the investigation or prosecution. I have received certifications from agencies for things that happened over ten years ago, but it depends on the agency. The second issue that may come up is that you will have to argue that armed robbery is an "other related offense" since it is not specified on the qualifying U visa crimes. I would definitely suggest speaking with an attorney. Good luck!

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