VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petitions can be denied for several reasons, most of which relate to eligibility issues or insufficient evidence. 

Why Is VAWA Denied?

Here are the main causes:

1. Lack of Proof of Abuse

• USCIS requires credible evidence of battery or extreme cruelty (physical, emotional, or psychological abuse).
• If police reports, medical records, affidavits, or other supporting documents are weak or missing, the petition may be denied.

2. Failure to Prove a Qualifying Relationship

• VAWA applies to spouses, children, or parents of U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• If the petitioner cannot prove the legal relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.), the case may fail.
• Denials also occur if the marriage is not recognized as bona fide (entered in good faith).

3. Insufficient Proof of Abuser’s Immigration Status

• Petitioners must show that the abuser is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• Without documentation of the abuser’s status, USCIS may deny the case.

4. Good Moral Character Issues

• Applicants must show good moral character for the past three years.
• Criminal convictions, fraud, or misrepresentation can lead to denial.

5. Not Residing with the Abuser

• The law requires evidence that the petitioner lived with the abuser at some point.
• If there is no proof of shared residence (leases, bills, affidavits), USCIS may deny the petition.

6. Insufficient Evidence of Good-Faith Marriage (for spouses)

• USCIS often denies cases where it suspects the marriage was primarily for immigration benefits.
• Strong evidence (photos, joint accounts, affidavits from friends/family) is needed to prove the marriage was real.

7. Missed Deadlines or Incomplete Application

• Filing errors, missing signatures, or failing to respond to a Request for Evidence (RFE) can result in denial.

In summary:

VAWA is most often denied because of weak evidence, failure to prove the abuser’s status or relationship, or issues with good moral character. The stronger and more organized the supporting documentation, the higher the chance of approval.