Labor Department to help immigrant crime victims get visas while helping police

Labor Dept to help crime victims get special visas

SAN FRANCISCO — Immigrants who have been victims of crimes and help authorities prosecute perpetrators can now get help from the U.S. Labor Department with applications for a special type of visa.

U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis says investigators of workplace violations have been authorized to certify applications for U visas to stay in the country,

In the past, law enforcement agencies were responsible for signing off on the applications that must receive final approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Immigrant advocates say Monday’s announcement by Solis will make it easier for immigrants who cooperate with authorities to get the consideration they deserve.