U-Visa timeline including background checks. This timeline has been updated to reflect the USCIS 2021 policies on bona fide determinations and their impact on U visa case processing which over time will provide access to protection from deportation and work authorization to U visa applicants who pass background checks and receive bona fide determinations from USCIS. Victims will remain in bona fide status while they await the date a U visa becomes available to issue them.