How long does VAWA approval take?

to 21 months
The Vermont Service Center, where the VAWA petitions are decided, states that the approximate processing is 16 and a half months to 21 months for a VAWA petition. The VAWA application takes a while to be approved. Typically, there is not a way to speed up the process.

How long does it take for I-360 special immigrant to be approved?

While USCIS generally adjudicates Form I-360 petitions for SIJ classification within 180 days, this time frame does not apply to Form I-485.

What happens after Form I-360 is approved?

After a Form I-360 petition is approved, the self-petitioner may apply for adjustment of status until his or her priority date is current. Battered spouses or children in the immediate relative category will be able to apply for adjustment of status as soon as the Form I-360 is approved.

Why is the USCIS taking so long?

Also the Covid-19 pandemic has contributed to these delays. This was caused by inefficient processing, understaffing, and various changes in policy due to Covid-19. Also, during the Trump Administration, USCIS created many new policies designed to actually restrict or delay cases.

Can I stay in the US while I-360 is pending?

Any immigrant who entered the U.S. on some sort of temporary visa and then submitted a green card application (for U.S. lawful permanent or conditional residence) is allowed to remain in the United States while the application is “pending.” In other words, they can wait until their application has been decided upon by …

When to apply for an I-360 adjustment of status?

If the abuser is a U.S. citizen, you are eligible to apply to adjust status as soon as your I-360 has been approved. If the abuser is a permanent resident (green card holder), however, you will have to wait for a visa to become available in order to apply for your green card.

What to do after your I-360 is approved?

After Your I-360 Receives USCIS Approval. After USCIS approves your I-360, you can begin to prepare your application to adjust your status (receive a green card). The main form for this is USCIS Form I-485, and more detailed instructions are found in How to File for Adjustment of Status (a Green Card) Based on VAWA.

How does the I-360 waiting list work?

Your place on the waiting list is based on your “priority date,” which is the date that your I-360 was approved. If the abuser previously filed an I-130 petition for you, you can use that priority date instead.

How to file for adjustment of status (a green card) based on VAWA?

The main form for this is USCIS Form I-485, and more detailed instructions are found in How to File for Adjustment of Status (a Green Card) Based on VAWA. If the abuser is a U.S. citizen, you are eligible to apply to adjust status as soon as your I-360 has been approved.