Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
A Path to Immigration Relief for Survivors of Abuse
Under the Violence Against Women Act, victims of domestic violence who are the child, parent, or current/former spouse of an abusive citizen or permanent resident may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent resident status themselves without needing the abuser to file for immigration benefits on their behalf.
At Ali & Associates, we understand that coming forward about abuse takes courage, and we are committed to handling every VAWA case with sensitivity, discretion, and compassion. Our attorneys provide confidential legal guidance throughout the VAWA self-petition process, helping survivors prepare complete, accurate, and well-supported applications.
Call Ali & Associates to find out more about this provision and for assistance in applying for lawful permanent resident status under VAWA. We will help you understand your options and guide you through every step of the process, safely and confidentially.
Our attorneys assist clients with
How We Can Help With Your VAWA Case
1
VAWA self-petition (Form I-360) preparation
2
Eligibility evaluations
3
Confidential case consultations
4
Supporting evidence collection
5
USCIS interview preparation
6
Evidence of abuse and good moral character documentation
7
Derivative status for children
8
Appeals and motions for denied petitions
1
Initial Consultation
We review your relationship to the abuser, immigration history, and eligibility to determine whether you qualify to self-petition under VAWA.
2
Application Preparation
Our attorneys prepare your VAWA self-petition, organize supporting evidence, and ensure your case is documented thoroughly and confidentially.
3
USCIS Interview
We prepare you for your interview and ensure you understand every stage of the process, always prioritizing your safety and privacy.
4
Ongoing Support
We remain available to assist with additional evidence requests, updates, and the next steps until you receive your green card.
Why Clients Trust Us
Supporting Survivors With Compassion and Discretion
Personalized legal representation
Personalized VAWA case strategies
Thorough application preparation
Experienced VAWA attorneys
Responsive communication
Dedicated client support
Recognition
Recognized by the organizations that matter.
Questions & Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VAWA?
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain victims of domestic violence to self-petition for lawful permanent resident status without the abuser's knowledge or involvement in the immigration process.
Who may qualify for VAWA?
The child, parent, or current or former spouse of an abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may qualify, regardless of gender, if they can demonstrate the qualifying relationship, abuse, and good moral character.
Will the abuser be notified of my application?
No. VAWA self-petitions are confidential, and USCIS is prohibited from disclosing information about your case to the abuser.
Can my children be included in my VAWA petition?
Yes. Certain unmarried children under the age of 21 may be included as derivatives on your VAWA self-petition.
What happens during my interview?
A USCIS officer will review your self-petition, ask questions regarding your relationship and supporting evidence, and determine whether to approve your case.
How can an immigration attorney help?
An experienced attorney can evaluate your eligibility, prepare your VAWA self-petition, organize supporting evidence, prepare you for your interview, and guide you through the process confidentially and compassionately to help present the strongest case possible.