Can the Violence Against Women Act (VAMA) Help You With Your Immigration Case?

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) protects men, women, and children who are victims of abuse. Provisions can enable victims to seek lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the U.S. without support from the person causing the abuse.

While this law makes it possible to get a green card if you are a victim of domestic violence or elder abuse, there are several steps to take and requirements to follow to achieve this outcome. Mistakes could cause a petition to be denied and potentially hinder future efforts to obtain a visa. Many VAWA applicants find it helpful to work with an experienced immigration attorney.

In most cases, when someone seeks a green card based on a family connection, the family member who is a U.S. citizen or LPR files a petition for immigration on their behalf. However, in abusive situations, an individual seeking a green card may petition on their own without assistance or approval for the abusive citizen or LPR. Click here to learn more.