Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Immigration Protection from a Los Angeles Attorney

In 1994, Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), permitting battered spouses and children of U.S. citizens and LPRs to petition USCIS on their own behalf rather than having to rely upon the abusive spouse or parent. This Act was amended twice, once in 2000 then again in 2005, the amendments expanded various protections for those seeking immigration benefits as battered spouses. Once approved, the petitioner (battered spouse or child) receives permanent resident status.

Widows & Widowers

• A widow or widower of a deceased U.S. citizen is eligible to petition for her- or himself and her or his children if:
• Foreign national had been a spouse of a U.S. citizen for at least two years;
• Foreign national was not legally separated from the U.S. citizen at the time of the U.S. citizen’s death;
• Foreign national has not remarried at time of petition; and
• Petition is filed within two years of the U.S. citizen’s death. 

To seek protection under the Violence Against Women Act, call our Los Angeles immigration law attorney to schedule your consultation.