Relief under Violence Against Women Act

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Immigrants & Immigration

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Relief under Violence Against Women Act

For many immigrants, getting legal status depends on a family member sponsoring them. If that family member becomes abusive, they can use immigration status as a way to control the victim. They might threaten to deport them or refuse to file their paperwork.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was created to help people in this dangerous situation. This law allows certain abused immigrants to apply for legal status on their own. Despite the name of the law, VAWA is gender-neutral. It protects people of all genders, including children.

Learn more about VAWA on this page.

Relief for immigrants under VAWA
Discover more about the protections non-citizens have under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Guide
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions
Learn more about VAWA protections for non-citizens who have been abused by their US citizen or LPR family members.
FAQ
Proving eligibility for VAWA self-petitions
Discover what proof can be submitted to support a VAWA self-petition to USCIS.
FAQ
Filing a VAWA self-petition
Discover the steps for filing a VAWA self-petition with USCIS.
How-To
VAWA Cancellation of Removal
Explore Violence Against Women Act ("VAWA") cancellation of removal for abused immigrants in removal proceedings. This cancels the removal or deportation of an applicant and grant the applicant lawful permanent residence.
FAQ