Overview
Are you being abused by your U.S. citizen child and don’t know what to do? In this article you will learn how VAWA may help protect you and allow you to apply for legal residency without depending on the abusive child.
In many cultures, especially within Latino families, parents give everything for their children: housing, food, emotional and financial support, even well into adulthood.
But when that same adult child—now a U.S. citizen—begins to abuse, threaten, or control their parents, the home can become a place of fear and silence.
What many parents do not know is that this type of abuse may open the door to a powerful form of immigration protection: VAWA for parents.
What is VAWA and how does it protect parents?
A law designed to protect victims of family violence.
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) allows parents who are abused by U.S. citizen children over the age of 21 to file an independent immigration petition.
- Allows parents to apply without the child’s consent.
- The process is confidential and does not notify the abuser.
- Recognizes physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse.
VAWA exists to protect the safety and dignity of parents, even when the abuser is their own child.
Can abuse by a U.S. citizen child qualify for VAWA?
Abuse does not always leave visible injuries. VAWA recognizes many forms of harm that deeply affect parents.
If these situations reflect your reality, you may qualify for VAWA.
VAWA for parents: main requirements
What you must meet
- Be the parent of a U.S. citizen.
- Your child must be at least 21 years old.
- The abuse occurred while you were in the United States.
- Demonstrate good moral character.
- Provide credible evidence of the abuse.
How to start your VAWA application
Consult with an attorney experienced in VAWA cases. Write a detailed personal declaration describing the abuse. Gather supporting evidence such as letters, psychological evaluations, or messages. File Form I-360 with USCIS and wait for a decision to move forward with adjustment of status.
Real cases: when parents found protection
Maria and Jose: Reclaiming dignity
January 23, 2025
"They lived in fear inside their own home. Their son threatened to call immigration..."
Through VAWA, they achieved:
Do I need my child to sign anything?
No. VAWA is an independent and confidential process.
Does the abuse have to be physical?
No. Emotional, psychological, and financial abuse are also valid.
- Constant threats.
- Financial control.
- Isolation from family.
VAWA recognizes that emotional abuse is just as damaging as physical violence.
Conclusion
If your U.S. citizen child abuses, threatens, or controls you using your immigration status, you have the right to protect yourself. VAWA for parents exists to offer a legal and humane solution.
You are not alone. Learning your rights and seeking legal help can be the first step toward peace, safety, and stability.
Consult with an Attorney NowCited Sources
- USCIS – VAWA I-360 Petition Guidelines
- National Domestic Violence Hotline – Abuse by Children
- American Immigration Council – VAWA Overview