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Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was passed by Congress in 1994 to address the unique issues that victims of…

Home » Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was passed by Congress in 1994 to address the unique issues that victims of domestic violence and abuse face in the U.S. While anyone can experience domestic violence, regardless of their immigration status, the law provides numerous forms of protection for noncitizen women and men who are victims of domestic violence or other qualifying crimes. VAWA offers special pathways to immigration status for certain nonimmigrant victims of abuse. Victims may qualify for an immigration relief through three forms of protection: “U” visas for victims of crime, “T” visas for victims of severe forms of trafficking, and “self-petitions” under VAWA.

Who qualifies for VAWA?

Noncitizen spouse or child of an abusive U.S. citizen or permanent resident: The battered spouse/child may apply for VAWA through a self-petitioning process, without the knowledge or involvement of the abuser
The spouse of a U.S. citizen or LPR whose child is being abused
The child of a U.S. citizen or LPR parent who is suffering abuse
Despite the name, VAWA is also available to men who are the victims of an abusive spouse

Many noncitizens who are victims of domestic violence do not self-petition for VAWA because they do not believe they will meet the qualifications. Some people also fear that submitting an application will put them on the USCIS’ radar, and they will be at risk of being deported. However, if you or your child is suffering abuse at the hands of a spouse or partner who is a citizen or lawful permanent residence (LPR), then applying for VAWA is the best way for a noncitizen to avoid deportation.

What are the benefits of VAWA?

VAWA holders are permitted to have employment authorization in the U.S.
Having VAWA gives victims the means to seek independence, without having to rely on their abuser for financial support
Once your Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant is approved, you will be eligible to Form I-485 to adjust your status to that of permanent resident

However bleak your situation may seem, you should understand that there is hope. The goal of VAWA is to protect vulnerable individuals from continued abuse by allowing them to seek and obtain LPR or U.S. citizenship status, and separate them from perpetrators of abuse and violence. The dedicated legal team at U.S. Immigration Law Counsel® cares deeply about ensuring your safety. We understand how complex your situation may be, and we’re prepared to help you identify and pursue the most strategic and efficient path forward. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need, empowering you to take control of your future. We encourage you to contact us today to discuss your situation.

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ANITA NAIDOO 2 days ago

Very nice and helpful, Marisol answered all my questions and was very kind.

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Maria Corazon Hugo_Murphy 5 days ago

Marisol is very accommodating. She communicates and connects well with us. Thank you.

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kemal Harris 5 days ago

Attorney Oni helped my wife and me prepare for our interview and did an amazing job. She went through all the questions the officer could ask and even did two mock interviews with us after hours so we felt confident. She explained everything clearly and was very thorough. At our interview at the USCIS field office attorney Oni was there with us throughout the interview while the officer questions us and was a great motivator who pushed my confidence to answer with full explanation. We truly appreciate her help and highly recommend her as i felt like she was part of the reason why I was able to pass my interview and acquired my permanent residence card.
Thanks Kemal

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Jessy Mariela McIsaac 1 week ago

I am incredibly grateful to Attorney Oni for helping me and my daughter during our immigration process. Although she did not start our case, she stepped in at a critical moment to represent us at our interview and carefully supplemented our file when our petition transitioned from an I-130 to an I-360 widow petition.

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Jessy Hernandez 1 week ago

I am incredibly grateful to Attorney Oni and Attorney George for helping me and my daughter during our immigration process. Although she did not start our case, she stepped in at a critical moment to represent us at our interview and carefully supplemented our file when our petition transitioned from an I-130 to an I-360 widow petition.

Her knowledge of immigration law and attention to detail immediately gave us confidence. She took the time to review our case, explained everything clearly, and ensured our file was properly prepared and supported before the interview. Her professionalism and calm guidance made a very stressful situation much easier for my family.

Attorney Oni and Attorney Natalia truly cares about their clients and works hard to protect their future. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated immigration attorney.

Special thanks Saman for always choosing the right people in the right position to help the firm’s clients.

Thank you again for helping me and my daughter through such an important moment in our lives.

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KBJM GARAGE 2 weeks ago

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Update - March 26th 2026:
It’s been a long time coming. I had doubtful thoughts at times, especially with everything happening in the country, but with the right immigration lawyers, you can truly turn stone into bread.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Savita Ramkalawan, Saman Movassaghi, and the U.S. Immigration Law Counsel team for their invaluable assistance in helping me obtain my Permanent Resident Card. I am truly grateful for their dedication, professionalism, and support throughout this process.
I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of expert immigration representation. They are, without question, among the finest immigration lawyers available.

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We had such a great experience with such an important event in our lives. ONI was amazing. And made me and my husband feel at ease. She Answered all questions & helped prepare us.

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