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
Confidential Consultation
We meet with you privately to understand your situation, assess eligibility, and explain your options. Everything discussed is confidential.
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.
Petition Preparation & Filing
We prepare your Form I-360 (VAWA self-petition) with detailed supporting documentation and legal arguments. We file directly with USCIS.
Work Permit Application
After filing, we immediately apply for your work permit (EAD) so you can support yourself financially.
VAWA Approval
USCIS reviews your petition. Most VAWA cases do not require an interview. Processing time is typically 18-36 months.
Green Card Application
Once your VAWA petition is approved, we help you apply for your green card through adjustment of status or consular processing.