Practice Areas · VAWA

VAWAProtection and immigration independence for abuse survivors

VAWA allows victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to seek immigration benefits without depending on the abuser.

ConfidentialSelf-petitionPath to Green Card
Overview

What VAWA is

VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) allows victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to seek immigration benefits without depending on the abuser. Protection is available to spouses, children and, in certain situations, parents of U.S. citizens. The process is confidential and can lead to a Green Card, providing safety and independence to the survivor.

A legal mechanism that allows self-petition by the abuse survivor, with no involvement or knowledge required from the abuser. USCIS handles the process with institutional confidentiality.

Eligibility

Who can apply

  • Spouses abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
  • Unmarried children under 21 abused by a qualifying parent or stepparent.
  • Parents of U.S. citizens over 21 who are victims of abuse.
  • Documentary evidence of the qualifying relationship and its good faith.
  • Evidence of the abuse or extreme cruelty suffered.
Benefits

Key benefits

  • Confidential petition without involvement of the abuser.
  • Path to permanent residence (Green Card).
  • Possibility of work authorization during the process.
  • Inclusion of eligible children in the petition.
  • Immigration independence from the abuser.

Talk to our team about VAWA.

Assess with our attorneys whether VAWA is the most suitable strategy for your professional and family trajectory.

Process

How we handle a VAWA case

  1. 01

    Confidential assessment of circumstances and qualifying relationship.

  2. 02

    Curation of documentary, testimonial and technical evidence.

  3. 03

    Filing of the I-360 petition with USCIS under institutional confidentiality.

  4. 04

    Case management through adjustment of status (I-485) and Green Card issuance.

“Immigration is a strategic decision. Every trajectory requires an individualized analysis and a legal structure built around the client's objectives.”

André Linhares, Esq.Founding Attorney · Linhares Law
Frequently Asked Questions

Clarifications on VAWA.

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Start an institutional conversation with our attorneys and assess whether VAWA is the right strategy for your objectives.