VAWA Self-Petition in Los Angeles: Immigration Protection for Abuse Survivors
Confidential immigration relief for abused spouses, children, and parents in LA County
Quick Answer
Los Angeles County is home to one of the largest Arab communities in California. SoCal Immigration Services provides confidential VAWA self-petition assistance to abuse survivors seeking immigration relief without depending on their abuser. Your safety and privacy are our top priorities.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
Los Angeles County is home to one of the largest Arab communities in California. SoCal Immigration Services provides confidential VAWA self-petition assistance to abuse survivors seeking immigration relief without depending on their abuser. Your safety and privacy are our top priorities.
What is VAWA Self-Petition?
VAWA protects:
• Abused spouses of U.S. citizens or green card holders
• Abused children of U.S. citizens or green card holders
• Abused parents of U.S. citizen adult children
Despite its name, VAWA protects victims of any gender.
Who Qualifies for VAWA Self-Petition in Los Angeles?
- •You are or were the spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- •You have been subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by your qualifying family member
- •You resided with the abuser at some point
- •You are a person of good moral character
- •The marriage was entered in good faith (for spouse petitions)
Types of Abuse Covered by VAWA
- •Physical abuse (hitting, pushing, choking, assault)
- •Sexual abuse and coercion
- •Emotional and psychological abuse
- •Threats and intimidation
- •Economic abuse and financial control
- •Isolation from family and community
- •Immigration-related abuse (threatening deportation, hiding documents)
- •Controlling behavior and coercive control
Benefits of VAWA Self-Petition
- •File independently without abuser's knowledge or cooperation
- •Path to lawful permanent residence (green card)
- •Work authorization while case is pending
- •Protection from removal proceedings
- •Confidentiality protections - USCIS cannot contact abuser
- •Access to public benefits in many states
- •Derived benefits for qualifying children
Evidence for Your VAWA Case
- •Marriage certificate or other proof of relationship
- •Evidence of shared residence (lease, bills, mail)
- •Police reports or protective orders
- •Medical records documenting injuries
- •Photographs of injuries or property damage
- •Affidavits from witnesses (friends, family, neighbors)
- •Your personal statement describing the abuse
- •Psychological evaluation (if available)
- •Records from shelters or counseling services
The VAWA Self-Petition Process
- 1Confidential Consultation
Meet privately with our team to discuss your situation in a safe environment
- 2Evidence Gathering
We help you safely collect documents and statements supporting your case
- 3Form I-360 Preparation
Our team prepares your self-petition with a compelling personal statement
- 4Filing and Prima Facie
Upon filing, you may receive prima facie determination for certain benefits
- 5Case Adjudication
USCIS reviews your case confidentially at the Vermont Service Center
- 6Green Card Application
After approval, proceed to adjustment of status or consular processing
Confidentiality Protections
• USCIS cannot contact your abuser or their family about your case
• Information from your abuser cannot be used to deny your petition
• Your case file is kept separate and confidential
• Special protections apply in removal proceedings
Your safety is paramount, and immigration officials are legally required to protect your information.
Special Considerations for Arab Women in Los Angeles
- •Cultural stigma around discussing domestic violence
- •Fear of community judgment or family shame
- •Language barriers when seeking help
- •Lack of awareness about available protections
- •Concerns about children's immigration status
- •Economic dependence on the abuser
- •Isolation from support networks
Why Choose SoCal Immigration Services?
- •Arabic and English-speaking staff
- •Private, confidential consultations
- •Experience with Arab family dynamics
- •Connections to domestic violence resources
- •Trauma-informed approach
- •No judgment, only support
- •Affordable payment options
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Will my abuser know I filed for VAWA?
A: No. USCIS is legally prohibited from contacting your abuser about your VAWA petition. All communications go only to you or your authorized representative.
Q:What if I'm already divorced?
A: You can still file VAWA self-petition within 2 years of your divorce, or if the divorce was connected to the abuse. We can evaluate your specific situation.
Q:Do I need a police report to file VAWA?
A: No. While police reports help, they are not required. Many abuse survivors never reported to police. We help you gather alternative evidence.
Q:Can my children be included in my VAWA petition?
A: Yes. Unmarried children under 21 can be included as derivatives on your petition and receive immigration benefits.
Q:What if I entered the US without documents?
A: You may still qualify for VAWA, and in some cases, you can adjust status even without lawful entry. Each case is unique and requires individual evaluation.
Q:How long does VAWA take?
A: VAWA processing currently takes 18-24 months on average. However, you may receive work authorization and prima facie determination much sooner.
Q:Is VAWA available for men?
A: Yes. Despite the name, VAWA protects abuse victims of all genders equally.
Q:What if my abuser is also undocumented?
A: VAWA requires the abuser to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. If your abuser is undocumented, other relief options may be available.
You Deserve Safety and Freedom
Take the first step toward independence. Our confidential, Arabic-speaking team is ready to help abuse survivors in Los Angeles navigate VAWA protection.
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