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Immigration rules can be hard to understand. But when someone has been hurt or badly treated by a family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) gives them a special way to seek safety and legal status in the United States.
VAWA lets certain victims of abuse apply on their own for a Green Card without their abuser knowing, helping them escape harmful situations and gain independence.
VAWA stands for the Violence Against Women Act. It was passed by the U.S. Congress to protect people who are victims of abuse by family members who are citizens or permanent residents. Even though the name says “Women,” VAWA protections are for all genders.
Under VAWA, people who were abused can file a special petition Green Card for VAWA Self-Petitioner. This means they apply for a Green Card without the help or approval of the person who hurt them.
You may be eligible Green Card for VAWA Self-Petitioner if:
This means you don’t have to wait for your abuser to file paperwork for you if you meet VAWA rules. Speak with our legal team to get clarity and peace of mind.
VAWA is a two-step process:
If you are already in the U.S., you may file both at the same time. If you are outside the U.S., the process may go through the U.S. consulate in your country.
One of the most important parts of VAWA is that your information is confidential. USCIS cannot share your address or details with your abuser. You can even list a safe mailing address if you are not comfortable getting mail at home.
These protections help keep survivors safe as they apply for immigration status.
Without VAWA, many victims stay in dangerous situations because they fear losing legal status if they leave their abuser. VAWA helps break that fear by letting victims seek a Green Card without their abuser’s involvement.
It also protects children and offers a path to safety and independence for families affected by abuse.
If you or someone you know has suffered abuse and may qualify for VAWA protection, don’t wait to get help. VAWA can offer safety and a path to legal status.
Call Godoy Law Office Immigration Lawyers today to schedule a consultation and to learn how we can help guide you through your application step by step. Your story matters, and you are not alone.
Can a man file a VAWA petition too?
Yes. VAWA is not only for women. Anyone who was abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and meets the rules can file a self-petition.
Do I have to live with the abuser right now to apply?
No. You must show that you lived with the abuser at some time in the past during your qualifying relationship.
Will USCIS tell my abuser I applied?
No. USCIS keeps VAWA applications confidential and will not share the information with the abuser.
Serving clients from 7 office locations: Oak Brook • Waukegan • Elgin • Orland Park • Berwyn • Aurora • Joliet • Chicago (Beverly)
Immigration Attorney Mario Godoy has years of experience guiding clients with immigration issues through the immigration process along with guiding clients through the criminal case. Godoy focuses on family-based immigration law, business immigration law, removal defense, and criminal defense representation of immigrants. A criminal charge or conviction can be devastating to your immigration case. With over a decade of immigration law experience and memories of family members who were deported due to bad legal advice, Godoy is committed to helping other immigrant families receive the legal justice they deserve. As a legal entrepreneur who practices immigration law, criminal law, estate and probate law, and running two successful law firms, Mario Godoy understands the importance of keeping families together and making a home and future in America.
