What Proof Is Needed for VAWA?
To file a VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) petition, the applicant must provide evidence to prove that they qualify for relief. The key types of proof needed include:
- Proof of Relationship: Evidence showing the petitioner’s relationship to the abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent (such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or proof of cohabitation).
- Proof of Abuse: Documentation demonstrating that the petitioner was subjected to battery or extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member. This can include police reports, medical records, restraining orders, affidavits from the petitioner or witnesses, photographs of injuries, or other evidence of abuse.
- Proof of Residence: Evidence that the petitioner lived with the abuser at some point, such as leases, utility bills, or affidavits from people familiar with the living situation.
- Good Moral Character: Proof that the petitioner is a person of good moral character, which may involve police clearances, letters of reference, or other documentation.
Providing detailed and credible evidence is essential to successfully demonstrating eligibility for VAWA protections.
