VAWA Self-Petition: A Green Card Path for Domestic Violence Survivors
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) allows survivors of domestic violence, battery, or extreme cruelty who are married to, or are children of, a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to file a self-petition for a green card — without the abuser ever knowing or participating. VAWA applies to all genders, not just women.
Reviewed by Gracie Johnson, Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law, State Bar of California, California State Bar #276536
Last reviewed: July 2, 2026
To self-petition under VAWA using Form I-360, you must show: (1) you are or were married to a US citizen or LPR (or are the child of one), (2) you have been battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by your US citizen or LPR spouse or parent, (3) you are a person of good moral character, and (4) you entered the marriage or relationship in good faith (not solely for immigration benefits).
The evidence required for a VAWA petition includes: police reports, protective orders, medical records, photos of injuries, declarations from witnesses or social workers, and a personal statement describing the abuse. However, USCIS understands that domestic violence victims often cannot obtain police reports or protective orders, and will consider all relevant evidence.
VAWA petitions are filed with USCIS and are kept confidential — your abuser will not be notified. USCIS has a dedicated VAWA unit that handles these petitions sensitively. Once approved, the VAWA self-petition (I-360) establishes immigration status as an immediate relative, and you can proceed to apply for a green card.
If you are in a dangerous domestic situation and need to understand your options confidentially, contact Gracie Johnson Law at (310) 554-4630. We handle VAWA cases with complete confidentiality and sensitivity.
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Also available in Spanish: Autopetición VAWA: Un Camino a la Tarjeta Verde para Sobrevivientes de Violencia Doméstica