VAWA Self-Petitions
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to seek immigration relief on their own — without the abuser’s knowledge, consent, or involvement. VAWA protections apply to survivors of any gender.
A VAWA self-petition can provide a confidential, independent path to lawful status for survivors who would otherwise depend on an abuser to file for them.
Ahmad & Associates handles VAWA matters with discretion and care, helping survivors document their eligibility and pursue the protection the law provides. All communications are kept confidential.
Who may qualify
VAWA self-petitions are available to several categories of survivors. Eligibility is fact-specific and may include:
01 · Abused spouses
A spouse (or former spouse) of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who experienced battery or extreme cruelty.
02 · Abused children
A child of an abusive U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent, in certain circumstances.
03 · Abused parents
A parent of an abusive U.S. citizen son or daughter, in certain circumstances.
04 · Confidential filing
The self-petition is filed independently and the law protects the survivor’s confidentiality.
What a VAWA case involves
A VAWA self-petition is built on careful documentation. Key elements often include:
- Qualifying relationship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident abuser
- Evidence of battery or extreme cruelty
- Good moral character
- Residence with the abuser at some point, in many cases
- A path to a green card for approved self-petitioners who are eligible
Frequently asked questions
Ready to discuss your immigration matter?
Begin with an initial call with our intake staff. We assist clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, and nationwide on federal immigration matters. Habeas corpus cases are accepted only in specific jurisdictions after review of the detention location. Multilingual assistance is available.
8000 Westpark Drive, Suite 630, McLean, VA 22102
Start with an initial call with our intake staff. Attorney consultations are arranged after intake.