The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was created to protect immigrant women from domestic violence while living in the U.S. However, men and children can also apply for this program if they’ve been abused by a spouse, parent, or adult child who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. When you’re approved for VAWA, you have the chance to stay in the U.S. and self-petition for a green card instead of relying on an abusive family member.