VAWA Applications can be very successful if done right. The Chicago pros at Alliant Law can help! Call for a free consultation.
The Violence Against Women Act (“VAWA”) was passed in 1994. It allows abused immigrant spouses and children of United States citizens (USC) and lawful permanent residents (LPR) to obtain a green card. Under VAWA, an abused immigrant spouse or child may self-petition for lawful permanent status by filing Form I-360 with USCIS, without having to rely on the abusive USC or LPR spouse or parent to file a petition.
“Who can apply?”
- Abused spouses of USCs or LPRs
- Spouses of USCs or LPRs whose children have been abused by their USC or LPR spouse
- Abused children of USCs or LPRs
- Abused parents of USCs who qualify as immediate relatives
Requirements (Self-petitioning spouse)
- Good moral character
- Marriage to a USC or LPR
- Marriage was entered into in good faith
- During marriage, immigrant spouse or child was battered or subject to extreme cruelty by her USC or LPR spouse
- Current or past residence with USC or LPR spouse
Please note that even an abused spouse whose marriage to a United States Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident ended within the past two years may still self-petition, provided that it can be established that it was a bonafide marriage and that there was a connection between of the termination of the marriage and the battering or extreme cruelty. Evidently, VAWA cases involve very sensitive matters.
Immigration law is often compared to tax law in its complexity. Do not struggle alone with complicated state and federal immigration laws and the varying immigration laws of other countries. We have helped many individuals, families and businesses resolve their immigration law challenges. Contact the immigration pros at Alliant Law for a free initial consultation to discuss how we can help you, your family or your business.