Can I ask the judge to include me in a witness protection program?

The U visa was created to provide protection to victims of crimes who cooperate with authorities in the investigation or criminal proceedings. This protection primarily translates into the possibility of obtaining immigration benefits while the victim recovers from the trauma and assists in the prosecution of those responsible.

Regarding the request to be included in a witness protection program, it is important to clarify that this request is not made directly to the immigration judge. Witness protection programs, such as the one offered by the U.S. Marshals Service – known as WITSEC – are managed by law enforcement and justice agencies, not by the immigration system.

Therefore, if you find yourself in a situation where you believe you need this protection, the proper procedure is to notify the authorities responsible for the criminal investigation. They will assess the risk and may refer your case to the protection program, if applicable.

Since the process involves the participation of different bodies – immigration for the U visa and public safety for witness protection – it is fundamental to comply with all the laws and guidelines in force in the United States. Seek information from official sources and be careful not to fall victim to scams or marketing strategies promising quick or guaranteed results, as these procedures can jeopardize your safety and immigration status.

Remember: safety and legality at every step are priorities. Therefore, if you need specific guidance regarding your case, consider seeking specialized advice from professionals with experience and recognition in the matter, always based on official information and avoiding promises that may not reflect the reality of legal processes.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.