When there is domestic violence such as battering or extreme cruelty in a marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, a beneficiary can petition for him or herself and receive a green card through this approved petition. This process can take place if an abusive spouse has already filed a petition for the beneficiary or even if they haven’t.

These situations can include:

• physical violence
• psychological abuse
• controlling behavior
• demeaning behavior
• isolation from family and friends
• withholding food and/or money
• restricting freedom (taking the keys)