VAWA FOR MEN

Your Guide to Freedom, Obtaining a Legal Status

What is VAWA? Do Men Qualify? How do I apply?

VAWA, which stands for the Violence Against Women Act, was initially designed to combat violence against women, but now it also allows eligible women, men, children, parents, and the LGBTQ+ community to file a VAWA self-petition.

If you can answer yes to the following, you can apply for VAWA:

You were abused by your spouse or ex-spouse (you need to file within two years of your divorce) who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
You can show that your marriage was real and entered in good faith.
You either live with or have lived with your spouse.
You can prove that you have a good moral character.

Not sure if you qualify?

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I Was Abused! How do I prove it?

Men often struggle to acknowledge that they are experiencing abuse in a relationship. Typically, people think of women or children in abusive situations, and men rarely report abuse to the police. As a result, they might not have clear documentation or evidence of the abuse.

According to recent statistics:

1 in 4 gay men, 1 in 3 bisexual men, and 3 in 10 heterosexual men will experience rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime
1 in 7 men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all violent crimes.

Now, when considering a man's immigration status in this situation, it can seem even more daunting for him to seek help. Additionally, men might not recognize that they are in an abusive relationship. It's important to note that physical harm is not the only qualifier for VAWA. Some signs of abuse may include:

Verbal abuse, such as belittling, humiliating, harassing, and threatening
Attempting to control or manipulate, particularly regarding immigration status
Threatening financial harm or engaging in financial extortion

If any of the above scenarios resonate with your current situation, you should talk to an experienced global immigration consultant like myself.

I'm Bozlady Sophie, a Global Immigration Consultant dedicated to helping men break free and secure their legal status in the U.S. through the VAWA self-petition process.

Don't let an abusive relationship hold you back from making your American Dream a reality!

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Our team of experienced professionals will provide the guidance you need, and help you put together your case wherever you are located. We serve clients nationwide across all 50 states and internationally.

What is the process for filing a VAWA self-petition?

To begin the self-petition process under VAWA, you need to complete and submit Form I-360 (VAWA). You also have the option to file a one-step application by submitting Form I-360 along with Form I-485. Filing both forms together can expedite the process. While there is no filing fee for the VAWA petition, you will need to pay the fee for Form I-485. Along with the above, you will also be required to submit the following:

Evidence of abuse (our team can assist you in compiling this evidence, which doesn’t have to involve physical abuse)
A Personal Declaration Letter detailing the abuse or neglect (if relevant)
Affidavits from witnesses who can attest to the battery or extreme cruelty
Documents verifying your identity and current immigration status, such as birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, and immigration papers
Proof of your immigration status
Documentation showing you reside with the abusive family member (lease agreements, utility bills, or a letter from your landlord)
Evidence that you currently live in the United States
Police clearance or FBI background check
Proof of your good moral character (recommendation letters, awards, etc.)

Ready to file your VAWA application?

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FAQs

Will my abuser be aware of my VAWA petition?

No, your abuser will not be informed that you have submitted a VAWA petition. According to Confidentiality Law 8 USC 1367, once you apply for VAWA, your case is managed by immigration authorities regardless of your immigration status.

Under this law, immigration authorities (USCIS) are prohibited from contacting or communicating with your abuser.

How long does it take for my VAWA application to be approved?

After submitting your VAWA application, it can take between 16 and 24 months for your case to be processed and approved. As you wait for USCIS to approve your application, watch for the following:

You might receive a request for additional documentation or proof. You will have 60 days to respond.
Your "Prima Facie Approval" letter allows you access to basic public assistance. Although this doesn't mean your application is approved yet, it's a positive sign.
An approval letter for your self-petition. If you haven't filed Form I-485 (for adjusting to a green card or lawful permanent residence), you should do so now.
Alternatively, you may receive a denial letter.

What happens after my VAWA application is approved?

Once your VAWA petition is approved, you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) through Form I-485 if you haven’t already done so. You may also be eligible for certain public benefits and work authorization.