Do my children need to be in the U.S. to benefit from the U-3?

The U visa was created to protect victims of crimes who cooperate with investigations and their immediate family members. It allows principal beneficiaries and their dependents (such as spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old) to obtain status in the United States, provided they meet the requirements determined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Regarding the children, they do not need to be physically present in the United States to be included as dependents in the U visa process. This means that even if they reside outside the country, they can be derivative beneficiaries, having their names included in the same petition as the family member who is the principal U visa applicant.

However, it is important to remember that if the process advances towards adjustment of status or the issuance of an immigrant or non-immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate abroad, specific procedures-such as interviews or medical examinations-will be required. These requirements must be strictly followed in order for the process to be successful.

Since U.S. immigration law is quite detailed and subject to change, it is essential that all stages are performed according to official regulations. Always seek updated information through reliable sources and consider the support of specialized professionals in the field, avoiding scams and unfounded promises of guaranteed results. In this way, you will be following the law and ensuring that your children”s rights are safeguarded throughout the entire process.

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.