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You Don't Need Your Abuser's Permission to Get Your Green Card
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) lets survivors of abuse by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or adult child self-petition — confidentially. Your abuser is never notified, and federal law prohibits USCIS from disclosing your case to them.
evening slots available; consultas en español
Who Qualifies for VAWA? (all genders qualify)
Spouses (and certain ex-spouses within 2 years of divorce)
of abusive US citizens or LPRs — your children can be included
Children
abused by a US citizen or LPR parent
Parents
abused by a US citizen son or daughter (21+)
"Abuse" means battery or extreme cruelty — physical violence is not required. Threats of deportation, control of your documents and money, isolation, and intimidation count. Many of our strongest cases involve no police report at all.
What Does VAWA Give You?
An approved I-360 self-petition puts you on the path to a green card (often with adjustment of status even after certain status problems), work authorization, and protection from removal based on the abuser's petitions. If you're already in removal proceedings, VAWA can be part of your defense — including special VAWA cancellation of removal.
How the Confidential Process Works
Step 1: Safe intake
we communicate only through channels you approve.
Step 2: Evidence, built with care
declarations, medical/counseling records, photos, texts, witness statements, and proof of the relationship and good moral character. No single document is required; the story is built from what exists.
Step 3: Filing the I-360
(no filing fee for the self-petition) and, where eligible, the green-card application.
Step 4: Protection while pending
8 U.S.C. § 1367 bars USCIS from using your abuser's word against you or telling them anything.
Why Camino
1. Evidence craftsmanship is our signature — the same standard behind 480+ approvals, applied to declarations that adjudicators believe.
2. Trauma-informed, bilingual team — tell your story once, in English or Spanish.
3. Flat fees with payment plans — leaving is expensive; your lawyer shouldn't make it harder.
4. We coordinate with family-court needs (protective orders, custody) through partner counsel when helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No — federal confidentiality law prohibits disclosure, and nothing is mailed to your home unless you say it's safe.
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Often yes; that's exactly what self-petitioning is for.
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Timing rules may still allow filing — ask before assuming you're out of options.
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VAWA protects all genders and all marriages equally.
Confidential help starts with one message.
or call (704) 218-9749.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.