№ 01 — VAWA

Protection without depending on your abuser.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain spouses, children, and parents who have experienced abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member to petition for immigration protection on their own.

Despite its name, VAWA protects both women and men. Eligible applicants may seek lawful immigration status independently, without the participation or permission of the abusive family member.

At GWP Immigration Law, we provide compassionate, confidential guidance throughout every stage of the process.

Call (702) 737-7717

№ 02 — Understanding VAWA

A path toward safety and independence.

VAWA was created to protect certain immigrant survivors of domestic violence and extreme cruelty.

Eligible spouses, children, and parents may file their own immigration petition without relying on the abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member.

In many cases, applicants file Form I-360. Once approved, many individuals may become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence, depending on their individual circumstances.

The law was specifically designed so victims can seek protection without notifying the abuser.

Important

Seeking help under VAWA does not automatically place someone at risk of deportation. Every situation is unique, and confidential legal advice is the best way to understand your options.

№ 03 — who may qualify?

Eligibility depends on your relationship and individual circumstances.

Abused Spouses

You may qualify if you are or were married to an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and satisfy the legal requirements established by VAWA.

Examples may include:

Abused Children

You suffered substantial physical or emotional harm as a result of the criminal activity.

Abused Parents

Parents who have suffered abuse by a U.S. citizen son or daughter age 21 or older may qualify under specific circumstances established by law.

Additional Requirements

Applicants generally must demonstrate:

Abuse or extreme cruelty
A qualifying family relationship
Residence with the abusive family member
Good moral character where required
That the relationship was entered into in good faith when applicable

Every VAWA case is unique. Eligibility depends on your immigration history, family relationship, supporting evidence, and the specific legal requirements that apply to your situation.

№ 04 — The process

Building a confidential case for protection.

Confidential Consultation

We carefully review your circumstances in a safe and private environment.

Eligibility Evaluation

We determine whether VAWA appears to apply to your case.

III

Prepare Form I-360

We prepare the self-petition together with all required documentation.

Supporting Evidence

We organize evidence documenting the qualifying relationship and the abuse or extreme cruelty.

USCIS Review

USCIS reviews the petition and supporting documentation.

Next Immigration Steps

If appropriate, we guide you through Adjustment of Status or any additional immigration benefits available after approval.

№ 05 — how we help

Compassionate guidance when you need it most.

Applying under VAWA requires careful legal preparation and complete confidentiality. Here’s how we help.

Evaluate whether VAWA is the right immigration option.

Review your eligibility confidentially.

Prepare Form I-360 accurately.

Organize supporting evidence for your case.

Guide you through USCIS communications.

Continue assisting with Adjustment of Status when appropriate.

№ 06 — frequently asked questions

Questions we hear often.

Do I need my spouse or family member's permission to apply?

No. VAWA allows eligible applicants to file independently without the participation or consent of the abusive family member.

Does my abuser get notified?

VAWA was specifically designed to protect victims. The process allows eligible applicants to seek immigration benefits independently while maintaining appropriate confidentiality under federal law.

Can men apply under VAWA?

Yes. Despite its name, VAWA protections are available to eligible men and women who satisfy the legal requirements.

Can VAWA lead to a Green Card?

In many situations, yes. After approval, eligible applicants may become able to apply for lawful permanent residence, depending on their individual circumstances.

Do I need police reports to qualify?

Not necessarily. Every case is different. While certain evidence may strengthen a petition, eligibility depends on the totality of the evidence available under the law.

Can GWP handle the entire process?

Yes. We provide confidential guidance from the initial eligibility evaluation through the VAWA petition and, when appropriate, the later stages toward permanent residence.

You deserve safety. You deserve options —

You don't have to face this alone.

If you have experienced abuse by a qualifying family member, immigration law may provide protections that allow you to move forward independently and safely.

Our attorneys will listen with compassion, protect your privacy, and help you understand every legal option available to you.

Or call (702) 737-7717