Comprehensive Guide to Form I-360: Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant
Form I-360 applies to several groups of immigrants who have faced extraordinary circumstances. This guide covers eligibility, application process, and required documents.
Eligible Categories:
1. Widows and Widowers of U.S. citizens
2. Abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or LPRs (VAWA self-petitioners)
3. Amerasians born to U.S. citizen fathers in certain Asian countries
4. Special Immigrants (various categories)
Application Process:
- Form I-360 is 19 pages long with 12 parts
- Filing fee: $435 (waived for certain categories)
- Self-petitioners vs. beneficiaries
Key Sections:
- Parts 1-3: Basic information and category selection
- Parts 4-10: Specific information for each category
- Parts 11-12: Signatures
Required Documents (varies by category):
Widows/Widowers:
- Marriage certificate
- Spouse's death certificate
- Proof of spouse's U.S. citizenship
VAWA Self-Petitioners:
- Proof of abuser's U.S. citizenship/LPR status
- Evidence of relationship and abuse
- Proof of good moral character
Amerasians:
- Birth certificate
- Evidence of relationship with U.S. citizen father
- Form I-361 (if applicable)
Special Immigrant Juveniles:
- Birth certificate
- Court documents establishing eligibility
- HHS consent copies (if applicable)
VAWA Safety Precautions:
- No need to remain married to abuser
- Priority date transfer from Form I-130 possible
- VAWA applies to victims of any gender
For more information and to access Form I-360, visit: https://www.uscis.gov/i-360
For VAWA-specific information, visit: https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/battered-spouse-children-and-parents
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.