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.
