How can I apply for legal US residency if I’m a victim of domestic violence?

The United States Immigration and Citizenship Services (USCIS) has a especial form for family members of US residents who want to obtain legal status but are afraid of being detained or deported. Here, we tell you who is eligible, what the process is and what is required to apply for legal US residency if you are a survivor of domestic violence.

Who is eligible?

First, it is important to present evidence of relationship to a US resident. In this case, the applicant must be the spouse, parent, or child of a resident, and submit conclusive evidence that he or she has suffered domestic violence from the resident.

Unmarried children under the age of 21 are also included in this type of petition; For those ages 21-25, they will need to show that abuse at the hands of a US parent or spouse was the main reason that prevented the process.

How to apply for US residency due to domestic violence?

To apply for US residency due to domestic violence, it is necessary to download the I-360 form that applies to your situation, sign it and send it in with a fee that can be calculated on the USCIS website.

Along with the form, it is necessary to provide documentation related to your case to verify that all the information is correct. The authorities may request evidence of the existing relationship with the US resident or that the applicant has lived in the same house as the US resident for a certain period of time.

What happens after I send in my application?

Once the authorities receive the I-360 form with your information and signature, they will begin processing it. You will receive confirmation of receipt and will be contacted about what your next steps should be.

The authorities may schedule a biometric exam and an interview with immigration officials so that they can provide a definitive resolution that allows the victim of domestic violence to obtain US residency.