Those in difficult marriages often wonder if they can apply for VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) immigration relief even if they are still legally married. The good news is that VAWA protections are available to those who meet the eligibility criteria, whether they are still in the marriage or have already divorced. 

Do You Have to Be Divorced to Apply for VAWA? 

No, you do not have to be divorced to apply for VAWA. If you are experiencing mistreatment in your marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may qualify for VAWA even while still legally married. You can apply whether you are married and living together or whether you are married, but living separately. If you have divorced, you can still apply and you typically have up to two years to file your petition. 

Who Qualifies for VAWA? 

To qualify for VAWA, you must demonstrate that: 

• You are or were married to (or were married to) a U.S. citizen or green card holder. 

• You have suffered mistreatment or extreme cruelty in the relationship. 

• You have lived with your spouse. 

• You are a person of good moral character. 

 How VAWA Can Help You 

With a successful VAWA petition, you can: 

• Receive work authorization to support yourself. 

• Apply for a green card to gain legal status in the U.S. without relying on your spouse. 

 Why Choose a VAWA Immigration Lawyer? 

A VAWA immigration lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence, complete your petition correctly, and guide you through the legal process with confidence. At Whitaker Legal, we understand the challenges of this process and provide compassionate, expert legal assistance. 

Need Help? Contact Whitaker Legal! 

Whether you are still married or already divorced, our team is here to support you. If you need help with a VAWA case, reach out to Whitaker Legal today. We are committed to helping immigrants build a future without barriers. 

If you need assistance with VAWA or any other immigration case, contact us today and schedule a consultation. We serve clients across the U.S. and are ready to assist you with your immigration needs.