Domestic Violence
If you are the victim of domestic violence, the most important step you can take is to get help. Know that there are free resources available nationwide, and you can start by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233.
The spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or LPR abuser might qualify under the Violence Against Women Act (VAW) to file your own petition without the abusive relative ever knowing.
If you qualify, then you will obtain lawful permanent residence in the United States, and can later apply for citizenship, and, above all, you do not have to stay with your abuser during the process.
The purpose of VAWA is to allow victims to seek safety and independence from their abusers. In order to self-petition under VAWA, the petitioner must meet specific requirements based on whether he or she is the spouse or child of a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident, or if he or she is the parent of a U.S. citizen.
The petitioner must have resided with the abuser, and also must have good moral character, which is a fact-based inquiry.
Finally, the petitioner must be otherwise eligible for immigration status as an “immediate relative” (spouse, child, or parent).