VAWA + VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

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 extreme cruelty committed 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.

This form of relief is not just for women; it is available for men and non-binary individuals who have also survived abuse, whether it is physical or psychological. The immigrant can “self-petition” under VAWA, which means that you do not need your abusive family member to file anything for you. They do not even need to know that you are taking this important step. 

For those who have survived domestic violence, a successful VAWA case will offer you a route to permanent residency, and can also protect you from deportation. Disclosing any domestic violence to your trusted attorney is critical: U.S. immigration laws can be particularly generous to victims of domestic violence in many cases. 

To find out if your situation qualifies for VAWA benefits, contact Encanto Law.