Green Card for Domestic Abuse Victims – VAWA Immigration Lawyer California

Maison Law Immigration Lawyers help people in California explore all of your options for citizenship and residency. If you’re in California and you’ve experienced abuse by a spouse who’s a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may not need to rely on them to apply for a Green Card. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) gives you a way to apply for lawful permanent residence (Green Card) on your own–safely and confidentially. Our team understands how emotional and difficult this process can be, and we’ll walk you through it with care and experience. When you’re ready, set up a consultation with our team.

How Can I Apply For a Green Card With the VAWA?

Even though it’s an incredibly difficult situation to be experiencing domestic abuse and not having citizenship, there’s an answer: the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The VAWA is a federal law that allows certain survivors of domestic abuse to file for a Green Card without your abuser’s knowledge. To apply for yourself (self-petition) you’ll need to show that:

• Your marriage was in good faith–not just for immigration purposes.
• Your spouse is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• You currently live with or have lived with your spouse at some point.
• You suffered abuse, like battery or extreme cruelty.
• You are a person of good moral character (no criminal record, etc.)

Your application will need to include the following:

• Form I-360 (VAWA self-petition)
• Personal declaration describing the abuse and your relationship
• Evidence of the marriage (certificate, joint bills, photos)
• Any proof of the abuse (e.g., therapy records, affidavits from friends, police reports if available)

It’s important to understand that VAWA was created to protect people in real, qualifying relationships who have experienced abuse–not to serve as a shortcut through the immigration system. Filing a false claim can lead to serious consequences, including denial of your petition, deportation, or being barred from future immigration benefits. But if your situation is real and you’re ready to take this difficult but empowering step, our team is here to help. And that starts with guiding you through the process.

What’s the VAWA Process Like?

Once you meet the eligibility requirements under VAWA, you can submit a self-petition to USCIS–without needing the involvement or consent of your abusive relative. Like most immigration processes, each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and your background, documentation, and overall credibility will play a big role in the outcome. Here’s what the general process looks like:

• Complete and submit Form I-360 (VAWA self-petition)
• Gather and include supporting documentation (evidence of abuse, proof of relationship, shared residence, etc.)
• If eligible, move forward by filing Form I-485 to apply for your Green Card
• USCIS may request biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence during the review
• USCIS will make a decision based on the total picture of your case

If your application and petition is approved, you may be able to apply for permanent residency immediately or when your priority date becomes current–depending on your status and relationship to the abuser. For many survivors in your situation, VAWA provides not just a legal path forward, but a powerful step toward your safety and independence. With that said, it’s still an incredibly scary situation to be in. That’s why it’s important to work with our experienced team.

Let Maison Law Immigration Lawyers Help You

Filing for immigration relief through VAWA can feel overwhelming–especially when you’re already dealing with the emotional toll of abuse. But you don’t have to go through this process alone, and you definitely shouldn’t risk your safety or legal status by filing without proper guidance. At Maison Law Immigration Lawyers, we understand how personal and sensitive VAWA cases are. Whether you’re a spouse, parent, or child of a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder, we’ll help you by:

• Explaining your rights and options
• Helping you gather the documentation you’ll need for your self-petition
• Answer your questions with care
• Support you throughout the application process

Our goal is to protect your future and help you move forward safely and with dignity. If you want to know more about your immigration options, contact our team today to set up a consultation.