You may be eligible to become a lawful permanent resident (get a Green Card) under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) if you are a victim of abuse or extreme cruelty committed by:

• A spouse or ex-spouse who is a U.S. citizen

• A parent who is a U.S. citizen

• A son or daughter who is a U.S. citizen

• A legal permanent resident (LPR) who is your spouse or ex-spouse or

• A parent who is an LPR.

You can file a petition for yourself (self-petition) and get permanent residency in the U.S. without the abuser’s knowledge. You may qualify if you were battered (physically) or subjected to extreme cruelty (mental) or (mental and physical). You may qualify even if you entered the United States illegally (EWI). You can still adjust your status in the United States.