A successful Self Petition under VAWA (Violence against Women Act) neither requires violence nor that the petitioner be a woman. This path to permanent residence is equally available to men who suffered abuse in their relationship. Under the regulations that govern VAWA, abuse is “any act or threatened act of violence, including any forceful detention, which results or threatens to result in physical or mental injury.” Note that psychological or emotional abuse can qualify as well.

VAWA is an important tool to consider and learn more about if you married a US citizen or Permanent Resident, suffered abuse, and never obtained conditional permanent residence. In this scenario, VAWA can provide a clear path to a Green Card.