U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a change in how certain Form I-360 petitions, particularly those filed under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), will be processed. Historically, most I-360 petitions were decided based on the submitted documents, including  a detailed affidavit from the self-petitioner. If additional evidence was required, USCIS would issue an RFE (Request for Evidence) and a decision would made on the documents submitted.  Interviews were generally reserved for the adjustment of status stage, after form I-360 was already approved. Many green cards were approved without interview. If an interview was scheduled, USCIS officers would limit questioning to the substance of the I-485, Adjustment of Status application, as the I-360 petition was already approved and could not be re-adjudicated, barring material error.

However, in December 2024, USCIS announced a change to its longstanding policy on VAWA applications and began requiring interviews for certain VAWA self-petitioners in connection with their I-360 petitions. In December 2024, USCIS interviewed a sample of self-petitioners and did not require an interview for all VAWA applicants. While not all applicants were interviewed, the policy shift marked a departure from prior practice and reflects increased scrutiny in humanitarian-based immigration filings.

Beginning in March of 2026, immigration practitioners reported receiving interview notices for both form I-360 and form I-485 for applications filed in 2021 and 2022.  Our colleagues have reported that these interviews have lasted approximately 4-6 hours, in some instances, and require the applicant provide a sworn statement.  Other reports indicate that every I-360 self-petitioner will be interviewed and their application will be adjudicated weekly by a panel of USCIS officers who will make the ultimate decision.  An official policy change has not been announced by USCIS at this time.

At the interview, VAWA petitioners will be asked about their good-faith intentions, shared residence with the abuser, as well as details regarding the abuse experienced. Applicants should review their submitted filings and any RFE responses in order to prepare for questioning by USCIS.  

Our firm is committed to dedicating the additional time and resources required to prepare for this new change to ensure our client’s eligibility is clearly demonstrated. Clients who have received interview notices have been scheduled for interview preparation sessions with our attorney and have been again provided with a copy of all submissions to USCIS to assist in the preparation. Our firm will also represent our clients at USCIS interviews and our legal team is available to answer any questions.

It is important to remember that being scheduled for an interview does not indicate a problem with the application. However, it emphasizes the need to be prepared to answer questions about the application and the applicant’s experience. It also requires the applicant to review what has been submitted, confirm its accuracy, and explain their eligibility to USCIS officers.

It is more important than ever to work with an experienced attorney to represent you in your VAWA case.  Our team is available to assist and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today at 703-348-1663 for a confidential consultation.

‍