When someone is hurt or abused in the United States, there are special immigration remedies that can help — VAWA and the U-visa. Both paths can lead to safety and legal protections, but they work differently and fit different situations. Below is a simple guide to help you understand them and decide which may work for you.
VAWA stands for the Violence Against Women Act. VAWA helps certain immigrants who were abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) relative. It lets victims file for immigration relief without telling their abuser.
Having an experienced immigration attorney is essential in VAWA cases. A lawyer can evaluate whether your situation qualifies under VAWA, help gather the correct evidence, and ensure your case is presented clearly and accurately to USCIS.
An attorney also helps prepare and file Form I-360 properly, respond to any requests for evidence, and guide you through the next steps toward applying for a Green Card if the case is approved. Most importantly, legal representation helps protect your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and reduce the risk of delays or denials—especially in sensitive cases involving abuse.
The U-visa (U nonimmigrant status) is for victims of certain crimes who have suffered physical or mental abuse and are (or will be) helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of that crime. This can include domestic violence, sexual assault, and other qualifying criminal activities.
Speak with an experienced immigration attorney who can review your situation.
Here’s how VAWA and U visas differ:
Choosing between VAWA and a U-visa depends on your story:
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) routinely advises that dual filings may be appropriate in certain cases for:
This is common when:
👉 Don’t guess which path is right for you. Speak with an experienced immigration attorney who can review your situation, explain your options, and create a strategy that protects your safety and your future.
📞 Call today at 630-345-4164 to schedule a confidential consultation and find out whether VAWA, a U visa, or both may be available to you.
Q1. Can I apply for both VAWA and U-visa at the same time?
Yes. Some people file both applications if they qualify for both, which can help increase the chances of getting relief.
Q2. Do I need to go to court or press charges to get a U-visa?
You must show that you helped or will help law enforcement with the crime, but you do not have to testify in court if you are afraid — law enforcement certification is what matters.
Q3. Will my abuser know if I file a VAWA self-petition?
No. VAWA self-petitions are confidential and do not require abuser approval or participation.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse and needs immigration protection, Godoy Law Office Immigration Lawyers can help you understand your options and choose the best path — VAWA, U-visa, or both.
📞 Call us today at 630-345-4164 for a confidential consultation and personalized guidance. Your safety, legal status, and peace of mind matter — let us support you.
🌐 Serving clients from 8 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.
