VAWA Self-Petition: 4 Biggest Benefits

It is sad that people still suffer from abuse in today’s society. So, it is for this reason that the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was initiated to help abuse victims escape their abusers. VAWA has truly been exceptional for this cause and the part it plays in helping abuse victims. However, one of its most crucial benefits so far has been the introduction of VAWA self-petition for immigration.

VAWA immigration stands as a signal of hope for foreigners who are being oppressed by their US-based spouses. The fact that such victims can escape such toxic environments without the fear of deportation or removal is enough incentive. However, the process and benefits of this entire concept can all be a little confusing at times, especially because it is self-petitioned. This article will explain everything you need to know about the benefits of VAWA self-petition. 

The Concept of the VAWA Self-Petition 

The concept of VAWA immigration is almost similar to family-based immigration but with slightly different rules. For example, unlike family-based immigration which requires related US citizens or lawful permanent residents to petition for the potential immigrant, VAWA allows for self-petitioning, and here’s why. In these cases, foreign abuse victims suffer abuse at the hands of their US-based spouse or family members. Therefore, it would be a clash of interest to require the abuser to help petition against themselves. Also, such persons might use the opportunity to hold their victims to a ransom and force them to stay. 

But thanks to the VAWA self-petition, victims no longer need the permission or intervention of their US-based spouse to file for VAWA. As long as they have proof of being abused by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, they can petition for themselves. Now, that’s certainly reason enough to escape abusers, but that’s certainly not the only benefit of VAWA self-petition.

What Are the Benefits of the VAWA Self-Petition

The benefits of the VAWA self-petition have proven to be very critical to putting an end to abusive relationships. More than anything, it helps give victims a reason to leave their abusive partners. That said, here are four of the most significant of these benefits. 

It is a Viable Immigration Route 

One of the first and most obvious benefits of VAWA self-petitioning is that it offers foreigners a chance to become lawful citizens themselves. For most abuse victims, the number one fear is that they can be deported if they leave their relationship. Thanks to VAWA, such persons can stay in the United States beyond their relationship with the abusive partner. However, victims must meet certain criteria to be qualified for VAWA immigration. 

Firstly, petitioners must provide proof that they are closely related to an abusive US citizen or lawful permanent resident. The qualifying relationships include spouse, dependent child, or parent. Next, petitioners must provide proof of abuse by their US-based spouse or relation. Then finally, petitioners should have a spotless criminal record to show that they are of good moral conduct. If you can provide all these, then you can qualify for VAWA immigration and its conveniences. 

Cancellation of Removal 

VAWA cancellation is also another benefit of VAWA self-petitioning, and it can also secure you a permanent residency status. If you’re facing removal or deportation from the US, and you’re abused by your US-based spouse parent or child, this could be a turning point for you. You can petition to remain in the US by applying for VAWA cancellation of removal. To be eligible to apply for cancellation of removal, you must be in an active removal proceeding. Also, you must meet the basic VAWA immigration requirements. 

If your petition is approved your removal proceedings will be stopped immediately. Not only that, you can also be granted a lawful permanent resident status. This means you can stay in the United States without fear of deportation. 

Work and Travel Permit 

Family-based immigration does not usually come with permits, either for work or travel. Except, in cases where these permits are separately applied for. So, in most cases, such immigrants are fully dependent on their benefactors, who are usually citizens or permanent residents. Now, abusive relations and spouses can often use this strategy to keep their victims in the relationship. However, thanks to VAWA, this does not have to be the case anymore. 

Once your VAWA self-petition is approved, whether via immigration or cancellation of removal, you’ll become entitled to certain conveniences, including work and travel permits. This means that you immediately become eligible to legally apply for jobs and get employed. You can also get a permit to travel around the country without being hassled by the immigration authorities. This is a bid to foster independence and ensure abuse victims can become self-sufficient outside the abusive relationship. 

Eligibility to Other Public Conveniences 

Of course, the conveniences receivable to approved VAWA petitioners are not limited to work and travel alone. VAWA acknowledges the fact that victims of abuse may require various healthcare services to treat possible injuries. They are also aware of the fact that these victims may be suffering from the mental and emotional trauma of their situation. So, the VAWA benefits include various types of Medicare, Medicaid, and mental health services. 

A successful VAWA self-petition may also qualify applicants for other conveniences like public housing, victims’ rights and services, adoption assistance, student financial aid, etc. 

The Coleman Law Group Can Help You  

The benefits of VAWA self-petitioning are very significant, and can not be overlooked. However, it is important to note that the VAWA approval is not the easiest to secure. This is why you will want to have an experienced VAWA attorney by your side while petitioning. Luckily, the Coleman Law Group is always available to help you get the best results from your VAWA application. You can trust that our experienced team has what it takes to fight for you and the success of your VAWA self-petition.