Short answer

VAWA is a federal law. It lets certain abused immigrants apply for a green card without the help of the abuser. The process is confidential.

Key facts

• VAWA is the Violence Against Women Act. Congress created special immigration protections in it for abuse victims.
• You can apply for a green card after domestic violence without your abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse.
• VAWA protects men and women. It is not only for women.
• Parents of adult U.S. citizens can also file for VAWA protections.
• The process is confidential. Your abuser will not be told about your filing, and immigration letters go to a safe address.

Read our VAWA guides

• VAWA Without Police Report: Can You Still File? Important Facts You Need to Know Now
• 6 Powerful Benefits of VAWA for Undocumented Immigrants in the U.S.
• Why Hiring a New Lawyer to Strengthen a Pending VAWA Case Can Make a Major Difference
• VAWA Petition Pro Tips 2023 | Green Card for Victims of Domestic Violence

Full service page

See our complete page on VAWA immigration for victims of violence.

Talk to an immigration attorney

Shepelsky Law Group can review your situation and explain your options. Contact us to get started.