Form I-918A: U Visa Derivative Petition
Protect Your Loved Ones While You Seek Safety and Justice
Form I-918A, Supplement A to Form I-918, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant, allows certain family members of a principal U visa applicant (U-1) to also receive U nonimmigrant status.
The U visa program helps victims of qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and have cooperated (or are willing to cooperate) with law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the crime. Form I-918A extends these crucial protections to eligible family members, recognizing that family unity is vital to survivors’ safety and recovery.
✅ Who Can File Form I-918A?
The principal U-1 applicant must file Form I-918A to include a qualifying family member as a derivative in their U visa petition.
You can submit Form I-918A at the same time as the principal U visa application or later, while the principal’s petition is still pending or valid.
✅ Who Qualifies for a U Visa as a Derivative?
Eligible family members depend on the age of the principal applicant and their relationship:
✅ If the principal U-1 applicant is 21 or older, they may petition for:
Spouse (husband or wife)
Unmarried children under 21
✅ If the principal U-1 applicant is under 21, they may petition for:
Spouse
Unmarried children under 21
Parents
Unmarried siblings under 18
✅ What Are the Key Requirements?
To qualify, the principal must show:
✅ A valid relationship exists with the family member.
✅ The relationship existed when the principal filed the U visa petition.
✅ The family member is not inadmissible to the U.S. (or they can request a waiver by filing Form I-192).
✅ How the I-918A Process Works
📌 Step 1 — File Form I-918A:
The principal U-1 applicant files Supplement A for each qualifying family member. The form should be submitted along with evidence of the family relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates).
📌 Step 2 — Include Required Evidence:
Gather strong evidence to show the relationship, the principal’s eligibility, and the family member’s admissibility.
📌 Step 3 — USCIS Review:
USCIS will review both the principal U visa petition and the derivative petitions. They may request additional evidence or issue notices if needed.
📌 Step 4 — Approval:
If approved, the family member will receive U nonimmigrant status for up to four years, with the same protections as the principal U-1 visa holder. Derivative U visa holders receive work authorization and may be eligible for certain benefits.
📌 Step 5 — Apply for a Green Card:
After three years of continuous physical presence in U status, derivative family members may be eligible to adjust status to lawful permanent residence (green card holder).
✅ Benefits of the U Visa Derivative Petition
✅ Keeps victims of serious crimes and their family members safe and united.
✅ Protects your spouse, children, parents, or siblings depending on your age.
✅ Provides work authorization and lawful status for eligible family members.
✅ Offers a clear pathway to a green card after three years in U status.
✅ How USCIS Expert Helps
At USCIS Expert, we understand how difficult and sensitive these cases can be. Our experienced team supports you every step of the way by:
✅ Evaluating who qualifies in your family for U derivative status.
✅ Preparing and filing Form I-918A correctly and completely.
✅ Helping you gather compelling relationship and eligibility evidence.
✅ Supporting you through any waivers for inadmissibility if needed.
✅ Guiding your family through consular processing or status adjustments to keep you safe, secure, and together.
Justice Shouldn’t Divide Families
If you’ve shown courage by helping law enforcement bring criminals to justice, you shouldn’t have to face your healing journey alone. Let USCIS Expert help protect your family’s future with a strong I-918A petition.
✅ Contact us today to learn how we can help you file for your family’s U visas — and keep your loved ones by your side as you build a safe, stable future in the United States.