VAWA Self-Petition (I-360)

Who qualifies

You were battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent or adult child, lived with them, and have good moral character.

The step-by-step roadmap

1. 1

   Put your safety first

   If you are in danger call 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

   Watch out: Use a safe mailing address the abuser cannot access.
2. 2

   Confirm the qualifying relationship

   Show the abuser is or was a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and your relationship to them.

   Common rejection reason: Cannot prove abuser's status.
3. 3

   Document the abuse

   Gather police reports, protective orders, medical records, photos and statements.

   Watch out: Your own detailed declaration is powerful evidence.

   Common rejection reason: Insufficient evidence of abuse.
4. 4

   Show good moral character and shared residence

   Provide police clearances and proof you lived together.

5. 5

   File Form I-360

   Mail to the USCIS Vermont Service Center. USCIS keeps VAWA cases confidential.

   Watch out: Consider a free legal aid organization for help.

Documents you'll need

• Proof of abuser's status

  Abuser's birth certificate, passport or green card copy, if available.

• Proof of relationship

  Marriage or birth certificate.

• Evidence of abuse

  Reports, records, photos, affidavits.

• Personal declaration

  Your signed statement in your own words.

• Police clearances

  For each place you lived 6+ months in the last 3 years.