Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Overview

Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in 1994. It allows spouses and children of United States citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPR) to obtain lawful permanent residency through self-petition.

It also provides immigration relief for battered immigrants in order to seek safety and independence from their abuser.

Eligibility Requirements

* Spouse: You may self-petition if you are a battered spouse married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Unmarried children under the age of 21, who have not filed their own self-petition, may be included on your petition as derivative beneficiaries.;
* Parent: You may self-petition if you are the parent of a child who has been abused by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse. Your children (under 21 years of age and unmarried), including those who may not have been abused, may be included on your petition as derivative beneficiaries, if they have not filed their own self-petition;
* Child: You may self-petition if you are a battered child (under 21 years of age and unmarried) who has been abused by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent.