You may self petition for permanent residency as an abused/Battered Spouse Under the Violence Against Women Act: VAWA
Before contacting our office, if you’re in an abusive relationship and need help, you should look for domestic violence support resources such as shelters, hotlines, and counseling. Some LA county-specific violence prevention resources can be found here.
What is VAWA?
The Violence Against Women Act was created to help victims of domestic violence abuse to remain in the United States by giving them the ability to seek an adjustment of status to a Lawful Permanent Resident. You may self-petition for permanent resident status in the United States, even if you are in unlawful status. If you qualify, we will assist you in proving your case.
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To be eligible to self-petition (an application you file for yourself for immigration benefits) you must qualify under one of the following categories:
Spouse
You may self-petition if you are a battered spouse married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Unmarried children under the age of 21, who have not filed their own self-petition, may be included on your petition as derivative beneficiaries.
Parent
You may self-petition if you are the parent of a child who has been abused by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse. Your children (unmarried and under 21 years of age), including those who may not have been abused, may be included on your petition as derivative beneficiaries if they have not filed their own self-petition.
Child
Your may self-petition if you are a battered child (unmarried and under 21 years of age) who has been abused by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident step-parent
You Must Be able to show
- Proof of your relationship.
- Proof of spouse's U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
- Proof you are currently residing in the United States.
- Proof you have resided in the U.S. with the citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse.
- Proof you have been battered by the spouse during the marriage.
- Proof you are a person of good moral character.
- Proof you entered into the marriage in good faith.