Q: Armed robbery victim, is that something that will help me get any kind of immigration status?

A: Yes, if you were the victim of a violent crime, which armed robbery is, then you can apply for a visa that leads to a green card. One of the conditions to qualify is if you assisted the police in their investigation into this crime. The suspect does not have to be captured in order for you to pursue a U visa. As long as you assist the police investigation, you will qualify.

A: Being the victim of an armed robbery could potentially make you eligible for immigration relief, such as a U visa, depending on the circumstances. A U visa is designed for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. Armed robbery falls under the list of qualifying crimes.

The fact that this happened a couple of years ago does not necessarily disqualify you. However, time is a factor, especially when it comes to obtaining the required certification from law enforcement to show you cooperated with the investigation. It’s worth exploring whether law enforcement can still provide this certification based on your involvement in the case.

You should gather any evidence you have, such as police reports, court documents, or communication with law enforcement. Consulting someone knowledgeable in immigration law can help you figure out the next steps. Don’t lose hope—there are options, and the details of your situation can make a big difference in finding the right path forward.