The Violence Against Women Act, VAWA, as is popularly called, allows certain spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders) to file a petition for themselves, without the abuser’s knowledge. The VAWA provision applies equally to women and men.

You are eligible to file under the VAWA provision if:

1. Spouse. You may self-petition if you are, or were, the abused spouse of a U.S.citizen or permanent resident. All your unmarried children under age 21 may be included in your petition.

2. Parent. You may self-petition if you are the parent of a child who has been abused by your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse. You may include all your unmarried children under age 21, including those who have not been abused. You may also file if you are the parent of a U.S. citizen, and you have been abused by your U.S. citizen son or daughter.