Can I submit the application even without the I-918B?

The U visa was created to protect people who have suffered crimes and who cooperated with authorities in investigating those offenses. One of the main requirements to prove such cooperation is obtaining the I-918B document, which is issued by a police authority or another designated agency to certify that you agreed to assist in the investigations or prosecution of the crime.

In practice, the I-918B is considered a fundamental piece in the U visa application, as it attests to your cooperation with authorities and confirms your status as a victim within the established legal parameters. Therefore, submitting an application without this document may result in your case being rejected or in requests for additional information and documents, which can delay or complicate the process.

If you have not yet obtained the I-918B, it is important to evaluate all possibilities: in some exceptional situations, the applicant may submit other documents that prove their cooperation or evidence of the request for this certification, but in most cases, the absence of the I-918B harms the completeness of your application. Thus, the safest guidance is to wait for the issuance of the referred document before proceeding with the submission of the application.

Always remember the importance of following all the requirements and immigration laws of the United States. Seeking information from official sources and consulting organizations or specialized professionals can help avoid scams and promises of miraculous solutions. A careful analysis of the U visa requirements and the presentation of all necessary documents are essential steps for a successful process.

Staying informed and acting according to official guidelines is the best way to ensure that your application is complete and meets the standards required by the U.S. immigration system.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.