On December 22, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced updates to Volume 3 of the USCIS Policy Manual related to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petition program. USCIS stated that the update responds to a sharp increase in VAWA filings and identified instances of fraud. From fiscal years 2020 to 2024, USCIS reported a 360% increase in Form I-360 VAWA self-petitions, including a 259% increase in filings by male self-petitioners and a 2,239% increase in filings by parents' groups that historically represented a much smaller portion of VAWA applicants.

USCIS emphasized that VAWA eligibility requirements themselves have not changed. However, the agency expressed concern that misuse of the program by unqualified applicants has contributed to processing delays, affecting survivors with legitimate claims. As a result, USCIS stated it is strengthening guidance to ensure officers apply the law consistently and in line with congressional intent.

The updated policy guidance codifies long-standing adjudication practices and clarifies evidentiary expectations. Key changes include reinforcing USCIS’s discretion to determine the credibility and weight of evidence, requiring self-petitioners to show they resided with the abuser during the qualifying relationship, and requiring primary evidence to establish a good-faith marriage. The guidance also updates rules affecting step-relationships, requiring proof that the abusive relationship continued after filing when a parent or child has died.

What This Means for VAWA Applicants

For individuals considering or currently pursuing a VAWA self-petition, these updates mean that applications will be reviewed more closely, and clear, well-organized evidence will be critical. Applicants should be prepared to document shared residence, the qualifying relationship, and—when applicable—a good-faith marriage using primary evidence whenever possible. These changes apply to VAWA petitions that are pending or filed on or after December 22, 2025. If you have questions about how this guidance may affect your case, you may contact our office at 703-348-1663.

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