How to Apply for VAWA in Connecticut (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you are living in Connecticut and experiencing abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child, you may qualify for protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

Many immigrants do not know that VAWA allows them to apply for legal status without the abuser knowing and without their cooperation.

This guide explains how the VAWA process works in Connecticut and what steps you need to take.

What Is VAWA?

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain immigrants who have experienced abuse to self-petition for lawful status in the United States.

You may qualify if you are:

Married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who abused you
The child of an abusive U.S. citizen or permanent resident
The parent of an abusive U.S. citizen (over 21 years old)

VAWA is confidential. The abusive person is not notified.

Who Qualifies for VAWA in Connecticut?

To qualify, you must prove:

A qualifying relationship (spouse, parent, or child)
You lived with the abuser at some point
You suffered battery or extreme cruelty
You have good moral character

Abuse does not have to be physical. It can include:

Emotional abuse
Financial control
Threats
Immigration-related intimidation
Isolation

Many Connecticut residents believe they do not qualify because they never called the police. That is not true. Police reports are not required in every case.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for VAWA

Step 1: Gather Evidence

You will need documentation such as:

Marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse)
Proof of shared residence
Evidence of abuse (messages, affidavits, therapy letters, reports)
Proof of good moral character

The stronger your documentation, the better your case.

Step 2: File Form I-360

VAWA petitions are filed using Form I-360 with USCIS.

This petition explains:

Your relationship
The abuse you experienced
Why you qualify under VAWA

Your case must clearly demonstrate credibility and consistency.

Step 3: Apply for Work Permit (If Eligible)

In many cases, VAWA applicants may qualify for a work permit while waiting for their green card process.

This can provide stability and financial independence.

Step 4: Adjustment of Status (Green Card)

If approved, you may apply for permanent residence (Green Card), depending on your eligibility category.

Processing times vary, but many Connecticut applicants receive decisions within several months to a few years depending on case complexity.

How Long Does the VAWA Process Take in Connecticut?

Processing times vary based on USCIS workload.

Generally:

I-360 can take 12–24 months
Work permits may take several months
Green card processing depends on visa category availability

Every case is different. Proper preparation helps avoid delays.

Is VAWA Only for Women?

No.

Despite the name, VAWA applies to:

Women
Men
Children
Parents

Immigration protection under VAWA is gender-neutral.

Why Working With an Immigration Lawyer in Connecticut Matters

VAWA cases require strong documentation and careful preparation. Small mistakes can lead to delays or denials.

An experienced immigration lawyer in Connecticut can:

Help you gather proper evidence
Draft a detailed personal declaration
Avoid common filing errors
Protect your confidentiality
Guide you through the green card process

You Are Not Alone

If you are experiencing abuse, you may feel afraid or uncertain about your immigration future.

VAWA exists to protect immigrants who are in difficult situations.

You may have more options than you think.

If you would like to understand whether you qualify, consider speaking with an experienced immigration attorney in Connecticut to review your case confidentially.