U Visa Work Authorization in Pomona: Employment Rights for Crime Victims
Get your work permit while waiting for U visa approval
Quick Answer
Crime victims in Pomona with pending U visa petitions can obtain work authorization through the Bona Fide Determination (BFD) process, allowing them to work legally while waiting for visa approval.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For crime victims in Pomona waiting for U visa approval, obtaining work authorization is essential for supporting yourself and your family. SoCal Immigration Services helps victims navigate the work permit process with compassionate, Arabic-speaking support.
U Visa Work Authorization Overview
Key points:
• Work authorization available before U visa approval
• Bona Fide Determination grants deferred action
• EAD allows you to work legally anywhere in the U.S.
• Protection from deportation while waiting
What is Bona Fide Determination (BFD)?
• Your petition is complete with all required evidence
• You appear to meet eligibility requirements
• Law enforcement certification (I-918 Supplement B) is included
• You haven't been found ineligible
Once USCIS grants BFD status, you receive deferred action (protection from removal) and can apply for work authorization.
U Visa Eligibility Requirements
- •You are a victim of qualifying criminal activity
- •You suffered substantial physical or mental abuse
- •You have information about the crime
- •You were helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to law enforcement
- •The crime occurred in the U.S. or violated U.S. law
- •You are admissible or qualify for a waiver
Qualifying Crimes for U Visa
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Violent Crimes | Murder, assault, kidnapping, manslaughter |
| Sexual Crimes | Rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation |
| Trafficking | Human trafficking, involuntary servitude, peonage |
| Domestic Violence | Domestic violence, stalking, dating violence |
| Other Qualifying | Witness tampassing, obstruction of justice, fraud in foreign labor contracting |
| Attempt/Conspiracy | Attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any qualifying crime |
How to Get Work Authorization with Pending U Visa
- 1File Complete U Visa Petition
Submit Form I-918 with law enforcement certification and all evidence
- 2Wait for BFD Review
USCIS reviews petition for bona fide determination
- 3Receive BFD Approval
USCIS issues notice granting deferred action status
- 4File Form I-765
Apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- 5Receive Work Permit
USCIS issues EAD allowing legal employment
BFD Timeline and Processing
| Stage | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| U Visa Filing | Day 0 | Submit complete petition |
| Receipt Notice | 2-4 weeks | USCIS acknowledges receipt |
| BFD Review | 1-2 years | USCIS determines bona fide |
| BFD Approval | Variable | Deferred action granted |
| EAD Application | After BFD | File I-765 for work permit |
| EAD Issuance | 3-6 months | Work permit received |
| U Visa Approval | 4-5+ years | Final visa approval (waitlisted) |
Work Authorization Benefits
- •Work legally for any employer in the United States
- •Obtain a Social Security number
- •Get a California driver's license
- •Build work history and credit
- •Support your family while waiting for U visa
- •Renew your EAD as needed
Derivative Family Members
• Spouse (U-2)
• Unmarried children under 21 (U-3)
• Parents (if you're under 21) (U-4)
• Unmarried siblings under 18 (if you're under 21) (U-5)
Each derivative can file their own I-765 for work authorization after BFD approval.
Renewing U Visa Work Authorization
• EADs are typically issued for 2-4 years
• File renewal 180 days before expiration
• Automatic extension may apply while renewal pending
• Continue working during processing with valid receipt
• Keep copies of all work authorization documents
Challenges and Solutions
- •Long wait for BFD determination - file complete petition to avoid RFEs
- •Missing law enforcement certification - work with victim advocates
- •Evidence of qualifying abuse - document medical and mental health treatment
- •Inadmissibility issues - file I-192 waiver with petition
- •EAD renewal delays - file early and keep proof of pending renewal
Pomona U Visa Services
- •U visa petition preparation and filing
- •Assistance obtaining law enforcement certification
- •Documentation of qualifying abuse
- •I-192 waiver applications for inadmissibility
- •Work authorization applications
- •Arabic and English speaking victim advocates
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:How long does it take to get work authorization with a U visa?
A: After filing a complete U visa petition, it typically takes 1-2 years to receive Bona Fide Determination, then 3-6 months for the EAD. The total time is usually 1.5-2.5 years from filing.
Q:Can I work while waiting for BFD approval?
A: No, you cannot work legally until you receive BFD approval and your EAD is issued. However, USCIS has discretion to expedite cases with urgent circumstances.
Q:What if I'm in removal proceedings?
A: U visa petitioners in removal proceedings may still receive BFD and work authorization. USCIS coordinates with immigration courts. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Q:Can my family members work too?
A: Yes, derivative family members (spouse, children) included in your U visa petition can also apply for work authorization after BFD approval.
Q:Do I need to report the crime to get a U visa?
A: You need law enforcement certification (I-918 Supplement B) signed by a qualifying official. This usually requires some cooperation with law enforcement, but you don't have to file a formal police report yourself.
Q:What happens after I get the U visa?
A: After U visa approval, you can stay in the U.S. for 4 years. After 3 years with U status, you can apply for a green card (permanent residence).
Need U Visa Help in Pomona?
You deserve protection and the ability to support yourself. Let our compassionate team help you with your U visa and work authorization application.
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