Domestic Violence and Your Immigration Rights: What VAWA Covers

October 7, 2025

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to focus on education, empowerment, and support for survivors in every community. For many immigrants living in Texas, the fear of losing immigration status can make an already dangerous situation even worse. Attorney Wogwu wants you to know that the law offers options to protect both your safety and your future.

Understanding the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

What is VAWA?

VAWA is a federal law that offers protection to immigrant victims of abuse including women, men, and children who are related to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). Abuse can be physical, emotional, or psychological. VAWA immigration protections were created so an abuser cannot use immigration status as a weapon of control.

Confidentiality and Inclusivity

The process is confidential and the abusive family member is not notified. VAWA protections apply equally to people of all ages, genders, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

The Power of the VAWA Self-Petition

What is a Self-Petition?

A VAWA self-petition allows survivors to apply for immigration relief on their own without the abuser’s knowledge or consent.

Key Benefits

  • Independence and Protection: Breaks the cycle of dependence, offers temporary immigration status, work authorization, and protection from deportation.
  • Path to Stability: May lead to a Green Card and eventually citizenship.
  • Access to Support: After preliminary approval, survivors may qualify for Medicaid, food stamps, and public housing.

Who Does VAWA Cover?

  • Abused spouse of a U.S. Citizen or LPR
  • Abused child (unmarried, under 21 or under 25 if filing was delayed because of abuse)
  • Abused parent of a U.S. Citizen son or daughter over 21

VAWA protections are available to people of all genders.

What Do I Need to Show to Qualify?

  • A qualifying relationship with the abuser
  • Proof of abuse (police reports, medical records, affidavits, photos)
  • Evidence of a good-faith relationship or marriage
  • Demonstration of good moral character

Your Safety is the Priority: Resources and Support

You can start with safety steps even before legal action: create a safety plan, document incidents when safe, and reach out to trusted community members. Texas law allows survivors to end leases early and protects against eviction for fleeing abuse.

National Resources:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | thehotline.org
  • National Immigrant Women’s Advocacy Project (NIWAP): Offers information and support for immigrant survivors.

Attorney Wogwu and Wogwu Law, PLLC, prioritize client safety and can help you understand your legal options when you are ready.

Understand Your Options with a Confidential Consultation

Taking the first step is the hardest, but you do not have to do it alone. Understanding your rights is a powerful tool for building a safe future. Contact Wogwu Law, PLLC, for a confidential consultation at (210) 864-5607 or through https://wogwulaw.com/contact/. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate guidance on VAWA immigration matters and attorney Wogwu is committed to helping you move toward safety and security.