At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., we recognize the strength it takes to speak out and seek help when facing abuse. Our team is deeply committed to supporting immigrants who are experiencing domestic violence at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member. At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., we provide compassionate legal support for immigrants facing abuse from a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you may be eligible to apply for legal status independently and safely, and it covers all genders. We're here to help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
Violence Against Women Immigration Lawyer
How to Qualify for a Green Card Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
If you qualify for a green card through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), your right to live and work in the United States no longer depends on your abuser. Instead, you can gain lawful permanent resident status on your own terms—with dignity, safety, and independence. Over time, this path may also lead to U.S. citizenship, offering even greater stability and opportunity.
You may be eligible to apply for a green card under VAWA if you have experienced battery or extreme cruelty committed by a:
Spouse who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR)
Parent who is a U.S. citizen or LPR
Adult child (age 21 or older) who is a U.S. citizen
How to Win a VAWA Case: Key Evidence
To successfully obtain a green card under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), it’s crucial to demonstrate that you’ve been a victim of battery or extreme cruelty. This abuse must have been committed by a qualifying relative—specifically, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is your spouse, former spouse, parent, or child.
Providing proof of the emotional and physical impact of the abuse will significantly strengthen your case. This may include medical records, therapy notes, personal statements, or witness testimonies.
By carefully gathering and presenting this documentation, we will create a compelling and complete picture of your experience. This thoughtful approach not only meets the legal criteria but also increases your chances of a favorable outcome—helping you move forward with safety, independence, and the right to live and work in the U.S. without fear.
To build a strong VAWA petition, you’ll need to provide clear and credible evidence of:
Your relationship to the abuser
Shared residence with the abuser at some point
Battery or extreme cruelty, including physical, emotional, or psychological harm
Good moral character, supported by documentation such as police clearance or affidavits
You must provide evidence that the abuser is a U.S. citizen (USC) or lawful permanent resident (LPR).
FAQs
What Counts as Evidence of Abuse in a VAWA Case?
To build a strong and credible VAWA self-petition, it’s essential to gather detailed evidence that demonstrates the abuse or battery you’ve experienced. USCIS reviews each case carefully, so presenting a full picture of your situation can make a meaningful difference.
Here are common types of evidence that can support your VAWA case:
Police reports or restraining orders Official documentation of incidents or legal protection measures.
Medical records, notes, or reports that show injuries or treatment related to abuse.
Witness statements, testimonies from friends, neighbors, coworkers, or family members who observed the abuse or its effects.
Personal documentation, journals, photographs, or written accounts that reflect your experience.
Digital communications such as emails, text messages, or social media posts that reveal patterns of abusive behavior.
Psychological evaluations, reports from licensed professionals detailing emotional or psychological impact.
VAWA Green Card Timeline: How Long Does the Process Take?
The timeline for receiving a green card through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) can vary widely depending on your individual case and the workload of your local USCIS the workload of the USCIS where your case is being processed. In general, the process may take anywhere from several months to a few years. Because each case is unique, it’s important to approach the journey with patience and a clear understanding of the legal steps involved.
While your VAWA petition is pending, you may be eligible to work legally in the U.S. by applying for and receiving employment authorization. This can provide financial stability and independence as you wait for your case to be processed.