Update to Filing Location for Form I-360 and Form I-485 for Self-Petitioning Abused Spouses, Children, and Parents: Navigating the VAWA Petition Process with Expert Assistance from Marina Shepelsky at Shepelsky Law
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a significant change in the filing location for self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents. Starting from February 8, 2023, all Forms I-360 (Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant) and Forms I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) filed under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) will no longer be received at the Vermont Service Center (VSC). Instead, these petitions will now be received at the Nebraska Service Center (NSC).
More information on where to file:
| If you are a Self-Petitioning Abused Spouse, Child, or Parent filing: | Mail your petition/application to: |
| Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Nebraska Service Center U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS P.O. Box 87426 Lincoln, NE 68501-7526 FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: 360 VAWA 850 S St. Lincoln, NE 68508-1225 |
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Nebraska Service Center U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS P.O. Box 87426 Lincoln, NE 68501-7526 FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: 485U VAWA 850 S St. Lincoln, NE 68508-1225 |
This change in USCIS reality marks a significant departure from the decades-long practice of filing VAWA petitions at the VSC. In a recent article, USCIS explained that this change is a result of the overwhelming increase in workload at the VSC, which has made it necessary to transfer some of the VAWA workload to the NSC.
For those unfamiliar with VAWA, it is a federal law that provides a means for certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents to self-petition for immigration benefits without the assistance of their abusive family members. VAWA petitions are processed under strict confidentiality and security measures, and USCIS has been receiving these petitions at the VSC for decades.
The change in filing location will bring about a new chapter in the processing of VAWA petitions with USCIS. The NSC is one of the largest immigration processing centers in the U.S. and has the capacity to handle the increased workload.
USCIS has also noted that the change in filing location will not affect the processing time for VAWA petitions. The processing time for VAWA petitions remains the same and is determined by the complexity of each case and the workload at the NSC. USCIS is committed to processing all VAWA petitions in a timely and efficient manner.
In conclusion, the recent change in USCIS filing location for VAWA petitions marks a significant change in immigration reality. The transfer of VAWA workload from the Vermont Service Center to the Nebraska Service Center is a result of the overwhelming increase in workload at the VSC. USCIS has assured the public that the NSC is well equipped to provide the same level of service and security that has been offered at the VSC, and the processing time for VAWA petitions will not be affected by the change in filing location.
If you are a self-petitioning spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have been a victim of abuse, it is important to understand the recent changes in USCIS filing location for VAWA petitions. You can find more information on USCIS’s website or by contacting a licensed immigration attorney.
If you are looking for help in navigating the VAWA petition process, consider reaching out to Marina Shepelsky at Shepelsky Law. With years of experience in immigration law, Marina Shepelsky has the expertise and knowledge to help you through the VAWA petition process. Whether you are just starting the process or have already filed your VAWA petition, Marina Shepelsky can provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure that your petition is processed smoothly and efficiently.
At Shepelsky Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll that abuse can take on a person, and they are committed to helping VAWA self-petitioners get the immigration benefits they deserve. We are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate service to each and every client. If you are in need of assistance with your VAWA petition, don’t hesitate to contact our team.