Get the Assistance You Need for Your Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Petition

At Francis Law Center, we understand the intricacies of acquiring a VAWA visa. Our team of knowledgeable and dedicated immigration attorneys is committed to helping individuals navigate the complex process of securing a VAWA visa, which allows eligible individuals to become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).

With offices in Chicago, IL, Naperville, IL, Schaumburg, IL, and Madison, WI, Francis Law Center is well-equipped to provide you with the highest quality legal services and increase your chances of success. Schedule your initial consultation today to learn more about how we can help you secure your VAWA visa.

Why Choose Francis Law Center for Your VAWA Visa Needs?

For those seeking protection and residency through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), choosing a legal team with the expertise and commitment to secure the best possible outcome is important.

At Francis Law Center, our attorneys have extensive experience handling VAWA visa cases, giving you the confidence and peace of mind you deserve. We understand the complexities of the VAWA visa process. We are dedicated to helping victims of battery or extreme cruelty, whether committed by a U.S. citizen spouse or parent, U.S. citizen son or daughter, or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent.

Trust Francis Law Center to provide the compassionate and effective legal representation you need to secure a Green Card and a brighter future.

Requirements for a VAWA Visa

Securing a VAWA visa requires an extensive understanding of the eligibility criteria and the ability to provide evidence to support your claim.

To be considered for a VAWA visa, you must provide proof of your relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This includes evidence of abuse suffered, which is an important factor in determining your eligibility.

Additionally, before submitting your VAWA petition, you must have been living in the United States for a minimum of three years. Demonstrating good moral character is also an essential requirement, as well as being physically present in the U.S. at the time of filing and interview.

Furthermore, you must pay the necessary application fee and provide supporting documents to prove your relationship, abuse, and other eligibility criteria.

Our experienced immigration attorneys at Francis Law Center are equipped to guide you through the process. We will ensure all requirements are met and that you have the best possible chance of securing your VAWA visa.

What Is a VAWA “Self-Petition?”

Under VAWA, immigrant victims of domestic violence, child abuse, or elder abuse may “self-petition” for lawful permanent resident status without the cooperation of an abusive spouse,parent, or adult child. It allows the victim to confidentially file the self-petition and attainlawful permanent resident status without separating from the abuser, thereby allowing thevictim to leave the abuser after lawful permanent resident status has been obtained.

An approved VAWA self-petition provides the applicant with work authorization, deferredaction, and an approved immigrant petition which allows her to apply for lawful permanentresidency. When the individual applies for lawful permanent resident status, she is subject tothe family preference system and any backlogs that may exist. Thus, spouses and children ofU.S. citizens may apply immediately and receive a green card as an immediate relative. Bycontrast, spouses and children of lawful permanent resident abusers are placed into thefamily preference system along with all other petitions for spouses and children of lawfulpermanent residents and are subject to backlogs.

There is no limit to the number of VAWA self-petitions that may be filed in any given year.

The VAWA Visa Process

The VAWA visa process involves the following steps:

The 360 Self Petition

The VAWA visa process requires a comprehensive collection of evidence to support your relationship, abuse, and other eligibility criteria, including police reports, medical records, and other relevant documentation.

The timely and thorough gathering of evidence, coupled with a well-prepared petition, is critical to increasing the chances of a successful VAWA visa application.

The VAWA visa petition form is Form I-360, the Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant.

This form is used to apply for a VAWA visa, which allows eligible individuals to become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) if they are the victims of battery or extreme cruelty committed by a U.S. citizen spouse or parent, U.S. citizen son or daughter, lawful permanent resident spouse or parent, or former spouse.

The Form I-360 must be filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and include evidence to support the individual’s relationship, abuse, and other eligibility criteria.

VAWA Prima Facie Determination, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and VAWA Approval

After filing your VAWA petition, you will wait for USCIS to review the petition and determine your eligibility for a VAWA visa. Once your petition is submitted, you will attend a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. USCIS will then conduct background and security checks. Next step is for USCIS issue a prima facie determination and Employment Authorization Document (Work permit).

Finally, USCIS will decide on your VAWA visa petition based on the information and supporting documents and your adjustment of status application.

Common Challenges and How Francis Law Center Can Help

At Francis Law Center, we understand the numerous obstacles individuals may encounter when seeking a VAWA visa. The acquisition process requires sufficient evidence to support one’s relationship, abuse, and eligibility criteria.

In addition, navigating the complex immigration process can be daunting, especially for those facing language barriers or cultural or social stigma. Furthermore, securing legal representation is crucial for increasing the chances of a successful VAWA visa application.

Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is equipped to provide the support and guidance necessary to overcome these challenges and achieve a successful outcome.

Schedule an Initial Consultation with Frances Law Center Regarding Your VAWA Visa

At Francis Law Center, we understand the importance of securing a VAWA visa and the challenges individuals may face in acquiring one. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is here to help you navigate the complex visa application process and increase your chances of success.

To get started, we invite you to schedule an initial consultation with us to discuss your VAWA visa needs. We offer our VAWA representation nationwide. During this consultation, we will assess your eligibility and the necessary evidence required for a successful VAWA visa application. In addition, our attorneys will take the time to understand your unique situation, answer your questions, and guide you on the best path forward.

With a commitment to personalized and effective legal representation, Francis Law Center is the place to turn for all your VAWA visa needs. Schedule your initial consultation today to get started.

EXCELLENT

Based on 451 reviews

Roberto Negron

August 9, 2026

Francis Law deliver outstanding result with our case. 100% recommend!

Jeff Steenwyk

August 8, 2026

Francis Law Center took a very difficult process (i.e. getting my wife & two daughters a marriage visa/green card) and made it go so much more smoothly. For those that have have not gone through this process, it is very cumbersome and downright scary. Francis Law Center, with huge kudos to Jae and our para legals Alex and Grace, made this tiresome process go much more smoothly. Grace was particularly awesome at the very end, as many last minute items came up that she handled extremely professionally. THANK YOU FRANCIS LAW CENTER, especially Alex, Grace & Jae

Yascara Romero

July 31, 2026

My family has trusted Francis Law Center for two completely different immigration cases, and we are incredibly grateful for the results. My own case was marriage-based. I had DACA and had previously traveled with Advance Parole, so I was able to adjust my status without leaving the United States. Attorney Jae Francis guided me through every step of the process, making everything clear, organized, and surprisingly stress-free. The entire process was smooth, efficient, and I successfully received my permanent resident card. My father’s case was much more complex and included an immigration waiver. His petition was through his U.S. citizen son, and unfortunately, he had initially started the process with a notary, which created several complications. Attorney Francis took over the case midway through, carefully untangled the issues, and guided our family through a much longer and more challenging process. They conducted extensive research to make sure they fully understood every aspect of the case and developed the best strategy possible. During the waiting period, we would have appreciated a little more proactive follow-up and communication. We understand the firm was going through a restructuring process at the time, which likely contributed to some delays, so we tried to be patient. Despite that, Attorney Francis remained committed to my father’s case, and we’re happy to report that he attended his immigrant visa interview in Ciudad Juárez just last week and was approved for his green card. That is no small victory, especially under the current immigration climate. One thing I really appreciate is that they offer free consultations and are upfront about their fees. Transparency is important, especially when you’re making a significant financial investment and choosing legal representation that can truly make the difference between successfully obtaining legal status and losing the opportunity to remain with your family in the United States. Overall, Attorney Jae Francis is knowledgeable, honest, and thorough.

Gabriela Ortiz Gaspar

July 29, 2026

I consistently receive prompt, efficient service and exceptional professional results. I have renewed my DACA through this firm for years, followed their recommendation to complete the advanced parole process, and successfully obtained my marriage-based green card with their assistance. I offer my highest recommendation.

Estrella Flores

July 25, 2026

Hola buenos días quería información trabajan sobre visa juvenil? Gracias

Vitou Sor

July 9, 2026

I highly recommend Francis Law Center. Ms Miri is knowledgeable, reliable, and very responsive. She explained everything clearly from the beginning and guided us through every step of the process. Ms Miri always responded quickly to our emails, texts, and phones call, no matter the time.

Kendall Grant

July 8, 2026

Finished in person consultation with Dr Jae Francis. The staff and Dr Jae were friendly throughout the appointment. We had many questions prepared and were satisfied that they were all explained. We signed a contract and started our immigration journey with them. Very excited

Kirenia Vazquez Ulacia

June 25, 2026

Fueron muy atentos y profesionales, siempre contestaban mis correos, los recomiendo

sendy arzadon

June 21, 2026

I am incredibly grateful to Francis Law Center for helping me with my I-751 case after I received a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID). From the beginning, their team was knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive during a very stressful time. They carefully reviewed my case, helped me prepare a strong response, and guided me through every step of the process. Their attention to detail and expertise gave me confidence when I needed it most. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, my case had a positive outcome. I highly recommend Francis Law Center to anyone dealing with complex immigration matters. They truly care about their clients and go above and beyond to help families stay together. Thank you to Attorney Francis and the entire team for your outstanding service and support.