What Is the Approval Rate for VAWA Self-Petition?
The average approval rate for VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petitions is approximately 75%. This means that three out of four applicants who file a VAWA petition with sufficient documentation and eligibility are likely to be approved.
From 1997 to 2011, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processed an average of 6,546 VAWA self-petitions per year, reflecting consistent use of the program by eligible victims of abuse. During this time, approval rates remained strong, underscoring the importance of submitting a complete and well-documented application.
Key Facts:
- Average approval rate: 75%
- Petitions processed annually (1997–2011): ~6,546
- Annual limit: There is no cap on the number of VAWA self-petitions that can be approved each year.
- Eligibility: Includes spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who have experienced battery or extreme cruelty.
Final Thoughts:
While approval rates are encouraging, success heavily depends on the strength of your application, especially the quality of evidence proving abuse, your relationship to the abuser, and your moral character. To improve your chances, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced immigration attorney or accredited legal representative.
