Violence Against Women Act – VAWA

VAWA is one way to obtain permanent residency. It does not require reporting abuse to the police. For this application, you do not need a relative to petition for you. Requirements for an abused spouse are:  

• Applicant was or is being abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or former spouse
• Applicant is currently in the marriage, or
• If the applicant is not currently in the marriage, then the marriage must have been terminated within two years before filing for immigration

An individual may also qualify for VAWA benefits if they are a parent being abused by a U.S. citizen son or daughter, or are an abused minor under 21 years of age (not married) being abused by a U.S. citizen of lawful permanent resident father or mother. In all three categories, you must be able to establish the following:  

• The victim must have suffered physical abuse and/or extreme cruelty
• Verbal and/or emotional abuse
• The victim has to have resided with the abuser
• It must be established that the victim is a person of good moral character

If you or someone you know are a victim of violence at the hands of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident call our office today to determine if you qualify for VAWA benefits and protections.