USCIS Announces New Rules to Address Fraud in VAWA and Victim-Based Visa Programs

The Trump Administration has announced new policy guidelines aimed at strengthening the integrity of immigration benefits available to victims of domestic abuse, human trafficking, and other serious crimes. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the changes are intended to curb fraud and misuse while preserving protections for legitimate survivors.

Increased Scrutiny of VAWA Self-Petitions

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain foreign nationals who have been abused by U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relatives to self-petition for immigration benefits through Form I-360, without the alleged abuser’s knowledge. Approved VAWA self-petitions may lead to work authorization and lawful status.

USCIS reports a dramatic increase in VAWA self-petitions in recent years. Between fiscal years 2020 and 2024, overall I-360 VAWA filings increased by approximately 360%, with petitions filed by male applicants rising by 259%. USCIS stated that this surge has contributed to processing delays and raised concerns about program misuse.

To address these issues, USCIS is implementing new requirements, including:

• Evidence that the petitioner resided with the alleged abuser during the qualifying relationship

• Proof that any marriage was entered into in good faith

• Reinforcement of USCIS’s discretion to determine what evidence is credible and sufficient

USCIS emphasized that unqualified filings strain agency resources and delay adjudications for survivors with legitimate claims.

Changes Affecting U and T Visa Programs

USCIS is also tightening policies related to victim-based nonimmigrant visas:

• T visas (for victims of human trafficking) increased by more than 1,000% between FY 2020 and FY 2024

• U visas (for victims of certain crimes) increased by approximately 95% during the same period

In response, USCIS is rescinding prior policies that limited the use of certain information sources and clarifying the scope and duration of confidentiality protections. These changes are intended to improve fraud detection while maintaining statutory protections for qualified applicants.

Broader Enforcement and Vetting Efforts

The new guidelines reflect a broader shift at USCIS toward enhanced vetting and enforcement. The agency has recently announced the creation of a specialized screening facility to improve background checks and has shortened the validity period of employment authorization for certain asylum seekers and other applicants.

What This Means for Applicants

These changes signal increased scrutiny for VAWA, U, and T visa cases. Applicants should expect more detailed evidentiary requirements and closer review of eligibility criteria. Proper documentation and legal guidance will be crucial in avoiding delays or denials.

How Our Firm Can Help

Our firm represents survivors of abuse and crime while also advising clients on compliance with evolving USCIS standards. If you are considering a VAWA, U visa, or T visa petition—or if you have concerns about how these changes may affect a pending case—we encourage you to contact our office for individualized guidance.