United States · Immigration54
VAWA Self-Petition
Survivors of battery or extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child can self-petition for a Green Card without the abuser’s knowledge or involvement. The process is confidential by law.
Currently available · Editorial record dated 10/20/2026 · Not lawyer review or an eligibility decision. Check current official instructions.
Who this is for
Survivors of abuse by a qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative — spouses, children and parents, of any gender.
Common problems
Safety first
Use a safe mailing address and device; USCIS confidentiality rules protect VAWA cases, but practical safety planning matters too.