Solovyova Law Firm
Immigration Help for Survivors of Domestic Violence
VAWA & U Visa Options for Abused Spouses, Children, and Parents
At Solovyova Law Firm in New York, we stand with survivors of abuse. If you are an immigrant experiencing domestic violence, cruelty, or other serious crimes, you may be eligible for immigration protection—even if you are undocumented or in removal proceedings.
Two powerful legal options may be available to you:
- VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petitions for abused family members of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
- U Visas for victims of crimes, including domestic violence, who cooperate with law enforcement
We provide confidential, trauma-informed legal support for immigrant survivors, helping you move toward safety, independence, and lawful status.
VAWA Petitions for Abused Immigrant Spouses, Parents, and Children
Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), immigrant survivors can file a self-petition for a green card without the help or knowledge of their abuser. This process is available to:
- Spouses (current or former) of U.S. citizens or green card holders
- Children under 21 abused by a parent who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder
- Parents of U.S. citizen children who are abusive
To qualify, you must show:
- A qualifying family relationship with the abuser
- You suffered battery, extreme cruelty, or abuse
- You lived with the abuser
- You are a person of good moral character
As a trusted VAWA immigration lawyer in New York, Sophia Solovyova will guide you through the self-petition process, help gather evidence of abuse, and ensure your privacy is fully protected.
U Visas for Victims of Domestic Violence and Other Crimes
If you are not eligible for a VAWA green card, or if the abuse was committed by someone you’re not married to—such as a dating partner, roommate, or relative—you may still qualify for protection under the U Visa.
The U visa was created to help victims of certain serious crimes who have suffered substantial harm and are willing to cooperate with law enforcement. It applies even if:
- You were never married to your abuser
- You are currently undocumented
- The crime happened years ago
- There was no arrest or conviction
To qualify for a U Visa, you must:
- Be the victim of a qualifying crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, felonious assault, or stalking
- Have suffered significant physical or emotional harm
- Report the crime and cooperate with police, prosecutors, or child protective services
- Obtain certification from a law enforcement agency confirming your helpfulness
We work closely with agencies in New York—including specially trained domestic violence units—to request U visa certifications, even for older cases. We’ve helped clients apply years after a crime took place.
U Visa Benefits Include:
- Protection from deportation
- Work authorization for four years
- Eligibility for certain family members
- A path to a green card after three years
Why Choose Solovyova Law Firm?
Sophia Solovyova is an immigrant and experienced New York immigration lawyer for survivors of domestic violence. She understands the emotional weight of these cases and offers compassionate, strategic legal guidance to help survivors take back control of their futures.
- Trauma-informed, confidential legal support
- Fluency in Russian and in Spanish
- Serving clients in New York and nationwide
- Remote consultations available
You do not need your abuser to apply for legal status. You have the right to live free from violence and fear.
Talk to a Domestic Violence Immigration Attorney Today
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for VAWA, a U Visa, or both, we can help. We’ll review your situation, explain your options clearly, and take steps to protect your rights from the very first conversation.
Contact Us
Call: 212-379-6471
Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today.
Secure Your Future
with Expert Immigration Help
