Have you experienced domestic violence and are now considering becoming a U.S. citizen? The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) can be a powerful tool on your road to healing and security. Here's a breakdown of the process, especially if you're looking to renew your VAWA status or eventually become a green card holder and then a U.S. citizen.

What is VAWA?

Imagine a law that lets certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or green card holders apply for legal status in the U.S. without depending on their abuser. That's VAWA in action! It protects victims from further harm by giving them a path to independence.

Steps to Citizenship Through VAWA

Here's a roadmap to navigate:

1. VAWA Self-Petition (Form I-360):

   • This is your starting point. To qualify, you need to be the abused spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

   • File Form I-360, and once approved, you'll be eligible to apply for adjustment of status, which is basically becoming a green card holder.

2. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485):

   • Now that you're approved for VAWA, you can apply to become a green card holder with Form I-485. This allows you to legally live and work in the U.S.

3. Building a Stable Life (3 Years):

   • Once you have your green card, there's a residency requirement. You'll need to continuously live in the U.S. for at least 3 years and be physically present for half that time.

4. Showing Good Moral Character (3 Years):

   • This is about demonstrating you've been a law-abiding person for the past 3 years.

5. Applying for Naturalization (Form N-400):

   • After meeting the residency and good moral character requirements, you're ready to apply for U.S. citizenship! This involves Form N-400, an interview, and passing the English and civics tests.

Important Tips for VAWA Applicants

• Fast Track Your Case:
  VAWA petitions get special attention because your safety is a priority. They're typically processed faster than usual applications.

• Financial Help Available: If you're facing financial hardship, you may qualify for fee waivers for Forms I-485 and N-400.

• Proof of Abuse Matters: When filing Form I-360, include evidence like police reports, medical records, or witness statements to support your case.

Remember, You're Not Alone

While you can't directly apply for citizenship through VAWA renewal, you can use this process to become a green card holder and eventually a U.S. citizen. An experienced immigration attorney can be a huge help in navigating this process and ensuring you meet all the requirements. VAWA empowers you to build a safe and secure future, free from abuse.