BATTERED SPOUSE VISA
The United States Immigration & Customs Services (USCIS) will assist any immigrant who faces domestic violence.
Form I-360 Abused Spouse Petition
Form I-918 A & B Victim of Crime (U-Visa)
Battered Spouse Visa
Yes. Abused spouses (male and female) of U.S. Citizens may be eligible to file an I-360 petition with Immigration.
• An approved I-360 petition permits the abused spouse of a U.S. Citizen to become immediately eligible to apply for permanent residency (green card).
Yes. Abused spouses (male and female) of Lawful Permanent Residents (“Green Card” holder), may be eligible to file an I-360 petition with Immigration.
An approved I-360 petition permits the abused spouse of a Lawful Permanent Resident to file for a work card and stops or defers deportation. Once the petition becomes current the abused spouse is permitted to file for a green card.
Yes. You may be eligible to apply for a U-Visa. A U-visa applies to immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, who are the victims of certain serious crimes and who have cooperated with authorities in the prosecution of the perpetrator.
An immigrant granted a U-Visa will subsequently be given legal status to reside and work in the United States (please read more information about this visa in our U-Visa section).
Suggested Plan of Action
Having documentation is helpful:
- Copies of all police reports for each incident of domestic violence
- If you sought medical help for injuries resulting from abuse, get copies of your medical reports and records.
- Any copies of psychological reports and records concerning counseling for the abuse.
- Proof that your abusive spouse is either a US Citizen or Green Card holder (I-360 Petitions only).
- Copy of your marriage certificate along with proof of Bona fides of marriage, such as bank statements, electric or gas bills in both names etc.
- Be willing to give a detailed statement about the abusive
- Have friends, family or witnesses be willing to make detailed statements on your behalf if necessary.
Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Jon E. Jessen, LLC. Attorney Jessen has experience dealing with these sensitive cases and will treat the information you provide with respect and dignity. We can help determine if you are eligible to file for an Abused Spouse Petition (Form I-360) or a U-Visa (Victim of Crime).