Form I-918
Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
Apply for U nonimmigrant status, which protects victims of certain crimes who have cooperated with law enforcement.
Filing fee
No fee
Processing time
60–96 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Paper only
Mail to USCIS lockbox
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-918?
Victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial abuse and obtained law enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B).
Where to file
Mail to the Vermont Service Center.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-918 page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing without the law enforcement certification (Supplement B)
- Weak evidence of substantial harm — medical, psychological, and personal statements needed
- Not filing derivatives for eligible family members on Form I-918 Supplement A
Filing tips
- The U visa has a 10,000-per-year cap and extreme backlogs — plan for 5+ years
- Bona fide determinations may provide interim work authorization and deferred action
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-918?
Apply for U nonimmigrant status, which protects victims of certain crimes who have cooperated with law enforcement.
Who files Form I-918?
Victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial abuse and obtained law enforcement certification (Form I-918 Supplement B).
How much is the Form I-918 filing fee?
The current filing fee is No fee. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-918 take to process?
USCIS currently reports 60 months to 96 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-918 online?
No. Form I-918 must be filed on paper and mailed to the designated USCIS lockbox or service center. Check the form's official USCIS page for the correct mailing address.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-918 cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
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- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.