Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Green Card Under VAWA?
There are 3 main groups who can apply for a VAWA adjustment of status: • Spouse – A battered spouse can apply for a green card under VAWA if she is married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the marriage was terminated by the abusive spouse’s death or divorce within 2 years of filing. Any children under 21 years of age can also be included on the application as derivative beneficiaries. • Parent – A parent of a child who has been abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse can self-petition for a green card. • Child – Children who have been abused by their U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent(s) can self-petition for green card status. They should be under 21 years old and should provide proof of their relationship with the parent.
