Filing a VAWA self-petition can raise concerns, particularly about whether you’ll need to testify about the abuse you experienced. Fortunately, when applying for VAWA, you do not have to testify in court and, in most cases, do not have to discuss the abuse in person with USCIS officers.  The process is designed to protect victims from the trauma from reliving the experience.

 

Instead of testifying, VAWA applicants provide written statements and supporting evidence, if available, to USCIS with their VAWA self-petition.  An interview is not required for VAWA approval.  Most of our clients are successful with VAWA self-petitions by providing a detailed affidavit outlining the various abuses experienced.  

 

 

Although you won’t need to testify, it’s important to present strong evidence to meet the VAWA requirements including good faith marriage (for marriage-based VAWA petitions), evidence of good moral character, and evidence of abuse.  The government must consider any credible evidence.

 

If you have questions or need assistance with a VAWA petition, please contact our office at 703-348-1663.