October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, raise awareness, and share resources that help people rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. At Hope Immigration, we know that survivors of abuse often face additional barriers when they are also navigating the immigration system. Fear of deportation, financial dependence, or threats from an abusive partner can make it feel impossible to seek help.
But there is hope, and there are options. U.S. immigration law includes several protections and pathways to lawful status for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other serious crimes. These laws recognize the courage it takes to come forward—and they are designed to help survivors find safety and independence.
Immigration Relief Options for Survivors
VAWA Self-Petition (Violence Against Women Act)
Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), certain family members of abusive U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can apply for their own immigration status without the abuser’s knowledge or consent. This is known as a VAWA self-petition. A successful VAWA self-petition can lead to work authorization, permanent residence, and eventual U.S. citizenship. VAWA is a wonderful opportunity for immigrant survivors to break the cycle of control—it allows survivors to pursue safety and legal status independently, without relying on their abuser.
To be eligible for VAWA, the applicant must be one of the following:
- A spouse (or former spouse) of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who has suffered abuse or extreme cruelty.
- A child under 21 abused by a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident parent.
- A parent abused by their U.S. citizen adult children.
U Visa (Victims of Certain Crimes)
The U visa is for immigrants who have been victims of serious crimes (including domestic violence) in the U.S. and have helped or are willing to help law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. It provides protection for those who cooperate with law enforcement while giving them the ability to work and rebuild stability in the U.S. The U visa provides work authorization and a path to permanent residence after three years in U status.
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must be victims of qualifying crimes who suffered physical or emotional abuse. They must also have been helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to police or prosecutors.
T Visa (Victims of Human Trafficking)
The T visa is for survivors who were forced, tricked, or coerced into any qualifying form of trafficking. It offers safety and stability for those who’ve survived exploitation and often includes eligibility for certain public benefits and services. The T visa grants legal status, work authorization, and a route to permanent residence after three years (or sooner if the trafficking case concludes).
To be eligible for this visa, victims of trafficking must be physically present in the U.S. because of the trafficking. They must also be willing to assist law enforcement (with some exceptions for minors or those deeply traumatized).
Battered Spouse Waiver (I-751)
For conditional residents (those who received a two-year green card through marriage), the Battered Spouse Waiver allows them to file the I-751 petition on their own if the marriage ended because of abuse. If the waiver is approved, it removes the “conditions” on residence and grants a permanent 10-year green card. This allows survivors to maintain their lawful status without depending on the abusive spouse’s cooperation.
To be eligible for this waiver, the applicant must be a conditional permanent resident whose U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse was abusive.
I-765V (Abused Nonimmigrant Spouse Work Permit)
Some spouses of certain nonimmigrant visa holders (such as A, G, E-3, or H visa holders) who experience abuse can apply for a special I-765V work permit. The I-765V provides work authorization for up to two years, giving survivors the ability to support themselves while exploring longer-term immigration options. It allows survivors to work legally and gain independence right away, even if they’re not yet eligible for a green card.
To be eligible for this work permit, applicants must be spouses who entered the U.S. as dependents on their partner’s visa (like H-4 or A-2) and suffered abuse or cruelty.
Taking the First Step
Applying for immigration relief as a survivor can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. These protections were created to help survivors find safety and security, and many organizations can help guide you through the process confidentially.
If you or someone you know is in danger, please reach out for help.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) | www.thehotline.org
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733
- Local shelters and legal aid organizations often have advocates familiar with immigrant survivors’ rights.
At Hope Immigration, we are committed to standing alongside survivors and empowering them with knowledge, compassion, and strong legal support. If you believe you might qualify for one of these forms of relief, please reach out to our office for a consultation.
You deserve safety. You deserve freedom. And you deserve hope.