🛡️ What Is the I-360 VAWA Self-Petition?
If you or someone you know suffers abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR), you may qualify to file an I-360 VAWA self‑petition. This process allows abused spouses, children, and parents to apply for a green card without needing the abuser’s consent or knowledge.
✅ Who Qualifies for a VAWA Self‑Petition?
You may be eligible to file Form I-360 if all the following apply:
- You experienced abuse (physically, emotionally, mentally) by a U.S. citizen or LPR
- You have a qualifying relationship (spouse, child, or parent)
- You lived with the abuser at some point (with some exceptions)
- You demonstrate good moral character
- If applying as a spouse, you must prove a bona fide marriage — not one entered solely for immigration benefits
***Note: VAWA is gender-inclusive. Men, women, and non-binary individuals can apply.
👪 Who Can File Form I-360 Under VAWA?
You can self-petition if you are:
- A spouse of a U.S. citizen or LPR
- A child (under 21) abused by a U.S. citizen or LPR parent
- A parent abused by your U.S. citizen adult child
VAWA also protects:
- Non-abused spouses whose child experienced abuse
- Abused step-parents or adoptive parents
🧒 If you are filing as a child, VAWA “freezes” your age so you won’t age out while your case is processing.
🌟 What Are the Benefits of VAWA Approval?
Once your I-360 petition gets approved:
- ✅ You get protection from deportation
- ✅ You can apply for a work permit
- ✅ You can apply for a green card through VAWA
- ✅ You may include qualifying children in your petition
📋 What Evidence Is Required?
To support your VAWA petition, you’ll need to show:
| Requirement | Sample Evidence |
|---|---|
| Abuse | Police reports, medical records, therapist notes, affidavits |
| Relationship | Marriage license, birth/adoption certificates |
| Living Together | Leases, shared bills, photos, affidavits |
| Good Faith Marriage | Photos, joint accounts, letters, affidavits |
| Abuser’s Immigration Status | Copy of green card or U.S. passport |
| Good Moral Character | Police clearance, community letters, no arrests |
📝 What Should Your VAWA Declaration Include?
Your written declaration should describe:
- Biographical info about you and the abuser
- How you entered the U.S.
- Any prior deportation/removal orders or arrests
- Marriage details (how/when you met, wedding, shared life)
- Details of abuse (physical, emotional, verbal, psychological)
- How the abuse affected you (emotionally, mentally, physically)
- Proof of your good moral character (volunteering, church, etc.)
💡 Tip: Include supporting affidavits from friends, neighbors, or clergy who know your situation.
👮 Do I Need a Police Report to Qualify?
No. USCIS understands many victims are afraid to contact authorities.
You do not need:
- Police reports
- Arrest records
- Restraining orders
But if you have them, they can help your case.
Other acceptable evidence includes:
- Personal statement
- Medical or therapy records
- Witness affidavits
🔒 Will My Abuser Be Notified?
No. The VAWA process is 100% confidential. Your abuser will not:
- Be notified
- Get a request to sign anything
- Receive any correspondence from USCIS
This ensures you can file safely and privately.
🛣️ How to Move Forward
- Consult an experienced immigration attorney. (Shepelsky Law Group has over 23 years of experience!)
- Gather strong evidence across all required categories.
- File Form I‑360 with your declaration and documents — without needing the abuser’s signature.
- Once approved, apply for:
- Adjustment of status (green card)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD/work permit)
- USCIS may call you for an interview.
💬 Ready to Start Your Journey?
At Shepelsky Law Group, we understand how difficult it is to leave an abusive situation. We’ll guide you through every step of your VAWA self-petition and green card process.
📞 Call us today for a confidential consultation — you’re not alone, and you deserve a safe future. Marina Shepelsky, Esq. and her team at Shepelsky Law Group have helped hundreds of abuse survivors safely gain legal status in the U.S.
📞 Call now: (718) 769-6352
📧 Email: info@shepelskylaw.com
🌐 Website: www.shepelskylaw.com
📍 Nationwide Immigration Representation