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VAWA Self-Petitions

If you have suffered abuse by a U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse, parent, or child, you may qualify for a green card without their involvement. Through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), survivors can apply confidentially, protecting their safety while building a secure and independent future in the United States.

✦FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION ✦VAWA Self-Petitions ✦VISAS ✦U.S. CITIZENSHIP

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VAWA SELF-PETITIONS (VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT)

Victims of abuse or domestic violence by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse, parent, or child may be eligible to file a self-petition under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). This petition allows survivors to apply for a green card without the abuser’s knowledge or involvement, ensuring their safety and independence.

Who Can File a VAWA Self-Petition?

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Spouses of abusive U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (including former spouses if the marriage ended due to abuse).

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Children (unmarried and under 21) abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent.

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Parents of a U.S. citizen (age 21 or older) who have suffered abuse.

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I-751 REMOVAL OF CONDITIONS ON GREEN CARDS

Individuals who receive a conditional green card through marriage must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence within the 90-day period before the card expires. This petition is necessary to demonstrate the legitimacy of the marriage and obtain a permanent (10-year) green card.

FILING OPTIONS FOR FORM I-751

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Joint Petition: If still married, the petition is filed jointly by the conditional resident and their U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse.

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I-751 Waiver (Filing Without a Spouse): If filing jointly is not possible, the conditional resident may file alone by requesting a waiver under specific circumstances.

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I-751 WAIVERS FOR REMOVAL OF CONDITIONS

If you are unable to file the I-751 jointly with your spouse, you may qualify for a waiver, allowing you to remove conditions on your green card without your spouse's involvement. You may apply for a waiver under one or more of the following grounds:

DIVORCE OR MARRIAGE TERMINATION

If the marriage ended in divorce or annulment, you may still apply by providing evidence that the marriage was entered into in good faith but later ended.

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ABUSE OR BATTERY

If you were subjected to physical, emotional, psychological, or financial abuse by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, you may apply for a waiver.This waiver can be filed even if you are still married or separated or divorced.

EXTREME HARDSHIP

If being removed from the U.S. would result in severe hardship beyond normal circumstances, you may qualify for a waiver. 

Hardship can be based on medical conditions, country conditions, financial instability, or personal safety risks in your home country.

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By filing an I-751 waiver, conditional residents can remove conditions on their green card independently, without needing the cooperation of their spouse. This allows individuals facing difficult circumstances to continue their path to permanent residency in the U.S.

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OUR STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

We make immigration simple and transparent. From your first consultation to the final decision, our team is here to guide you with clarity, care, and expertise.

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STEP 01

CONSULTATION

We carefully assess your situation, listen to your goals, and outline the best legal options.

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STEP 02

LEGAL STRATEGY

A tailored plan is built around your needs, ensuring all forms and documents meet immigration standards.

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STEP 03

ONGOING GUIDANCE

We keep you informed at every stage, answer your questions, and provide support until your case is resolved.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Our clients’ success stories are at the heart of what we do. From green cards to citizenship, we’re honored to guide individuals and families through every step of their immigration journey.

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FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION

Jakab Law made my entire green card process seamless from start to finish. Their team explained everything clearly, guided me through each requirement, and answered all my questions with patience. What could have been an overwhelming and stressful experience became manageable and straightforward. Their compassionate support gave me confidence and peace of mind every step of the way. I am truly grateful for their professionalism and care.

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SOPHIA MARTINEZ

Houston, TX

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U.S. CITIZENSHIP

Thanks to Jakab Law, my naturalization process was incredibly smooth and completely stress-free. From the first consultation to the final oath ceremony, they kept me informed, prepared, and confident at every stage. Their professionalism and compassion made a complicated process feel simple, and I always knew I had someone on my side.”

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JAMES PATEL

Houston, TX

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PROUDLY SERVING WASHINGTON & MIAMI

Our offices are conveniently located to serve clients across Washington, D.C., Miami, and nationwide. Whether you’re nearby or connecting with us remotely, we’re dedicated to providing trusted legal guidance wherever you are.

WASHINGTON

DC office: 202-972-0270

1629 K Street Suite 300 NW Washington DC 20006

MIAMI

Miami office: 786-673-1461

66 West Flagler street suite 900 Miami FL 33130

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TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD SAFETY AND INDEPENDENCE

You don’t have to face this journey alone. At Jakab Law, we provide compassionate, confidential, and skilled legal support to help you secure your future through a VAWA self-petition. Let us guide you toward safety, stability, and a fresh start.

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SCHEDULE NOW

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