Zubkoff Law
ZUBKOFF LAW
U.S. Immigration Law
Confidential & SafeLast updated: March 2026

VAWA Self-Petitions

Escape abuse and obtain your green card independently. Your safety and confidentiality are our top priorities.

Your abuser will NOT be notified. All consultations are completely confidential.

What is VAWA?

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to self-petition for a green card without the abuser's knowledge or cooperation. This provides a safe path to immigration status for abuse victims.

Despite its name, VAWA protections are available to all genders—men, women, and non-binary individuals can all qualify. The law recognizes that domestic violence affects people of all backgrounds and provides equal protection.

Your Safety is Protected

  • USCIS will NOT notify your abuser about your petition
  • Your petition is completely confidential
  • You do NOT need your abuser's permission or cooperation
  • You can file even if you're separated or divorced (within 2 years)

Who Qualifies for VAWA?

Abused Spouses

You may qualify if:

  • You are or were married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • You were subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by your spouse
  • You lived with your abusive spouse at some point
  • You are a person of good moral character
  • The marriage was entered in good faith (not for immigration purposes)

Abused Children

You may qualify if:

  • You are the child of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • You were subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by your parent
  • You are unmarried and under 21 (or under 25 if filing based on extreme cruelty)

Abused Parents

You may qualify if:

  • You are the parent of a U.S. citizen son or daughter
  • You were subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by your son or daughter
  • You lived with your abusive son or daughter

What Counts as Battery or Extreme Cruelty?

USCIS defines abuse broadly. It includes physical violence, but also psychological, emotional, and economic abuse.

Physical Abuse

  • • Hitting, slapping, punching, kicking
  • • Choking or strangulation
  • • Use of weapons or objects
  • • Restraining or confining
  • • Denying medical care

Sexual Abuse

  • • Forced sexual acts
  • • Sexual coercion
  • • Marital rape
  • • Reproductive coercion
  • • Sexual humiliation

Emotional/Psychological Abuse

  • • Threats of harm or deportation
  • • Constant criticism and humiliation
  • • Isolation from family and friends
  • • Controlling behavior
  • • Gaslighting and manipulation

Economic Abuse

  • • Controlling all finances
  • • Preventing you from working
  • • Sabotaging employment
  • • Withholding money for basic needs
  • • Stealing or hiding money

You Don't Need Police Reports or Convictions

While police reports, restraining orders, and medical records strengthen your case, they are NOT required. We can build a strong case using affidavits, photos, text messages, emails, and other evidence.

Benefits of VAWA Approval

Independence

Obtain your green card without your abuser's involvement or knowledge

Work Authorization

Receive a work permit while your case is pending

Include Your Children

Your unmarried children under 21 can be included in your petition

Confidentiality

Your case information is protected and not shared with your abuser

Protection from Deportation

VAWA approval provides protection from removal proceedings

Path to Citizenship

After 3-5 years as a permanent resident, apply for U.S. citizenship

The VAWA Process

1

Confidential Consultation

We meet with you privately to understand your situation, assess eligibility, and explain your options. Everything discussed is confidential.

2

Evidence Collection

We help you gather evidence of abuse (police reports, medical records, photos, messages) and evidence of your relationship. We work sensitively and at your pace.

3

Petition Preparation & Filing

We prepare your Form I-360 (VAWA self-petition) with detailed supporting documentation and legal arguments. We file directly with USCIS.

4

Work Permit Application

After filing, we immediately apply for your work permit (EAD) so you can support yourself financially.

5

VAWA Approval

USCIS reviews your petition. Most VAWA cases do not require an interview. Processing time is typically 18-36 months.

6

Green Card Application

Once your VAWA petition is approved, we help you apply for your green card through adjustment of status or consular processing.

"According to immigration attorney Kelsey Zubkoff, "VAWA cases are deeply personal to me. Every client who comes to us has shown incredible courage. We provide compassionate, confidential representation and fight to ensure survivors get the protection they deserve.""

— Kelsey Zubkoff, Esq., Managing Partner at Zubkoff Law

✦ Key Takeaway

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) allows abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to self-petition for a green card without the abuser's knowledge or consent. Processing takes 18-36 months. All cases are handled with strict confidentiality.

Source: Zubkoff Law — Nationally recognized immigration firm with 4,000+ clients served. Schedule a free consultation.

You Deserve Safety and Independence

We understand the courage it takes to seek help. Our team is here to support you with compassion and confidentiality.

All consultations are completely confidential. Your abuser will not be notified.