What Every VAWA Applicant Needs to Submit With an I-360 Self-Petition

If you’re applying for U.S. residence through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), you must also submit a self-petition form (Form I-360) to the USCIS. Unfortunately, without guidance from an immigration visa attorney, you might not know of VAWAs strict eligibility requirements.

We list several types of supporting documents needed to support your case to become a lawful permanent resident, break from an abusive relationship with a U.S. citizen, and escape hardship.

What Evidence Must Be Included When I Submit Form I-360?

Form I-360 is a Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. To meet VAWA requirements, you should include:

• A written statement that details the abuse you suffered from an abuser
• Police records or accompanying evidence that demonstrates you have “good moral character.”
• Proof that the abuser is a parent, spouse, or child
• Evidence that the abuser is a U.S. citizen or has a green card
• Photographic or physical evidence of abuse
• Proof you lived with the abuser
• Passport or birth certificate
• Verification you live in the U.S.

These Three Categories Will Carry Significant Weight in The USCIS Assessment

Declaration of self-petition: this is a vital component of your application. It describes your relationship with the abuser, whether they are a citizen or permanent resident. This is an opportunity for you to discuss the nature of your relationship. It should include:

• Information regarding how you first met
• How the relationship with the abuse evolved over time
• The types of abuse you endured and suffered
• The number of times it occurred

The end of the declaration might seem a bit challenging, as you must demonstrate that you have good moral character. Do you volunteer? Take care of a sick relative? Go to church? You should include each in your petition.

Police records: If you have a history of calling the police for abuse, you should request a copy of the reports for your VAWA application. You can also use them to demonstrate good moral character if you have no serious criminal convictions.

Proof of the abuser’s status: Is your abuser a U.S. citizen or green card holder? Try to retrieve a copy of their birth certificate, passport, or certificate of naturalization (if applicable).

If it is challenging to obtain this information at home, you can go through the County office or file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. The USCIS can also retrieve it if the abuser submitted a self-petition application in the past.

Applying for a VAWA visa can feel time-consuming. Working with our law offices of immigration in Los Angeles can help make this time-sensitive process easier.