Under the federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you may be eligible to become a lawful permanent resident (get a Green Card) if you are the victim of battery or abuse by:
- A U.S. citizen spouse or former spouse;
- A U.S. citizen parent;
- A U.S. citizen son or daughter;
- A lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse or former spouse; or
- An LPR parent.
Both men and women can benefit from this form of relief. You may apply without your abusive family member’s knowledge or consent. If your application is approved and you meet other eligibility requirements, you may be eligible to apply to become a lawful permanent resident.
In order to be eligible for a Green Card as a VAWA self-petitioner, you must meet the following requirements:
- File proper application for green card;
- You are physically present in the United States at the time you file your green card application;
- You are eligible to receive an immigrant visa;
- An immigrant visa is immediately available to you at the time you file your green card application and when USCIS makes a final decision on your application;
- None of the bars to adjustment of status apply to you;
- You are admissible to the United States for lawful permanent residence or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility or other form of relief; and
- You merit the favorable exercise of USCIS’ discretion.
Please call us to discuss your situation.