What VAWA Gives You: 6 Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants in the U.S.
Understanding the full range of VAWA immigration benefits can be life-changing for undocumented immigrants trapped in abusive situations. Here is what VAWA can do for you.
1. You Can File Without Your Abuser Knowing
One of the biggest VAWA immigration benefits is that you do not need your abusive spouse, parent, or child to sponsor you, sign anything, or even know that you filed. VAWA allows you to take control of your own immigration case — completely confidentially.
2. VAWA Can Give You a Path to a Green Card
If your VAWA case is approved, you may be able to apply for lawful permanent residence in the United States. For many undocumented immigrants, this can become a real path from having no status to eventually getting a green card.
3. You May Be Able to Get a Work Permit Through VAWA
Depending on your case and what applications are filed, VAWA may allow you to apply for work authorization. This can give you the ability to work legally, get a Social Security number, and support yourself without depending on the abusive person.
4. Protection and Stability While Your Immigration Case Is Pending
A VAWA filing can help protect you from being completely dependent on your abuser for immigration status. It can also give you more security while your case is pending and after approval, especially if you are undocumented and afraid of what may happen next. Once approved, you will be in Deferred Action and protected from deportation. If you are in an abusive situation and need immediate support, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day.
5. VAWA Immigration Benefits May Extend to Your Children
In some cases, children may be included as derivative beneficiaries in a VAWA case. This means VAWA may not only help the person who suffered abuse, but may also create immigration benefits for their children.
6. A Chance to Rebuild Your Life in the US
VAWA is not just an immigration form. It is a way for victims of abuse to separate their future from the control of the abusive person. It can help a person work legally, move toward a green card, protect their children, and start building a safer and more independent life in the United States. Learn more about how VAWA can help you take back control of your future.
Call Shepelsky Law Group About Your VAWA Case Today
We have been doing VAWA work ethically and successfully for the past 23 years. Learn about our work in this field. Read about real clients we have helped through VAWA and other immigration cases. Call us today to discuss your VAWA immigration benefits and begin legalizing in the U.S.