Do I Qualify for U Visa, and How to Change My Illegal Status to U-Status, Green Card Questions and Answers

Question:

I am in U.S. illegally and a victim of crimes. Do I qualify for U visa, and how to change my illegal status to U-status?

Answer:

Victims of certain serious crimes, who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse as a result of criminal activity in the United States may be eligible to use this form of relief and apply for the U nonimmigrant status, or U visa.

Victims must cooperate in the criminal investigations or prosecutions. They can then be granted U status and, after 3 years, if humanitarian need, public interest, or family unity reasons can be proven, they can apply for lawful permanent residency.