VAWA SELF-PETITION (FORM I-360)

COVER LETTER AND EVIDENCE CHECKLIST

Filing Overview

• Self-petitioner: [NAME], A#: [A-NUMBER]
• Basis: [Spouse/Child/Parent of abusive USC or LPR]; Relationship: [DETAILS]
• Good faith marriage (if spousal): [YES/NO]; Residence with abuser: [DATES/LOCATIONS]
• Abuse evidence: [Physical/Extreme Cruelty] with supporting documentation
• Filing type: [Standalone I-360 / With I-485 (if eligible)]; Fee: [FEE/WAIVER AUTOMATIC FOR VAWA]

Packet Order (suggested)

1) Cover letter (this document) summarizing eligibility, abuse, and good faith marriage (if applicable).
2) Form I-360 (signed) with VAWA box checked.
3) Proof of status of abuser (USC/LPR): passport, naturalization certificate, green card, or secondary evidence/FOIA.
4) Proof of qualifying relationship and good faith marriage (if spousal): marriage certificate, joint documents, children's birth certificates.
5) Proof of shared residence: leases, bills, mail, affidavits.
6) Abuse/extreme cruelty evidence: police reports, medical/psychological records, shelter/advocate letters, photos, communications, affidavits.
7) Affidavit of self-petitioner detailing relationship, abuse, residence, good faith marriage, and good moral character.
8) Good moral character evidence: police clearances, court dispositions (if any), community letters.
9) Identity: passport/ID, birth certificate with translation if needed.
10) If filing I-485 concurrently (if eligible): include I-485 packet, I-765 (c)(9), I-131, I-864V not required.

Cover Letter Body (sample)

text
Date: [DATE]

USCIS [LOCKBOX/ADDRESS]

RE: VAWA Self-Petition (Form I-360) - [NAME, A#]

Dear Sir/Madam:

Enclosed please find Form I-360 filed as a VAWA self-petition. Evidence establishes the qualifying relationship, the abuser's [USC/LPR] status, residence with the abuser, good faith marriage (if applicable), battery/extreme cruelty, and the self-petitioner's good moral character. Exhibits are organized per the index above.

Respectfully,
[NAME/ATTORNEY]
[ADDRESS]
[PHONE] | [EMAIL]

Practice Notes

• Do not include abuser's signature or cooperation; ensure safe mailing address.
• Consider I-485 eligibility (immediate relatives may adjust if otherwise admissible); include I-765/I-131 if eligible.
• Include certified translations; redact sensitive info as appropriate.
• Track prima facie determinations and deferred action; advise on safety planning.