A path to permanent residence for those deserving special protection or recognition
Form I-360 opens the door to permanent residence in the United States for individuals in special circumstances: victims of abuse, widows/widowers of U.S. citizens, religious workers, special immigrant juveniles, and certain groups protected by law.
At Legalízate Ya, we help every person find the right legal pathway to achieve stability, security, and hope in this country.
Table of Contents
- What is Form I-360?
- Types of beneficiaries who can file the application
- Key documents and requirements
- Step-by-step process
- Common cases: VAWA, widows/widowers, and Special Immigrant Juveniles
- Frequent mistakes and practical tips
- Why choose Legalízate Ya?
- 📞 Contact us today
What is Form I-360?
Form I-360 — Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant is an application filed with USCIS that allows certain groups to obtain permanent residence (Green Card) or advance their immigration process without the need for a traditional sponsor.
This form is fundamental in cases where the person qualifies for humanitarian, religious, family, or special service reasons.
Types of beneficiaries who can file the application
You can file Form I-360 if you belong to one of the following groups:
- Victims of abuse (VAWA):
Spouses, children, or parents of citizens or permanent residents who have suffered domestic violence or mistreatment. - Widows/Widowers of U.S. citizens:
Individuals married to a U.S. citizen who passed away before filing an immigration petition. - Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ):
Children and adolescents who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected by one or both parents and have received protection from the juvenile system in the U.S. - Religious workers:
Ministers, priests, missionaries, or other religious workers with verifiable experience seeking residence through religious service. - Other special cases:
- Amerasians (born in Asia to a U.S. father)
- Employees of certain international agencies, foreign governments, or the U.S. Armed Forces.
Key documents and requirements
Depending on the type of beneficiary, different documents may be required, but generally include:
- Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, ID)
- Evidence of the petitioner’s status (if applicable)
- Declarations or police reports (in VAWA cases)
- Marriage and death certificates (for widows/widowers)
- Court orders for guardianship or custody (for Special Immigrant Juveniles)
- Letters from religious employers (for religious workers)
- Affidavits of support or sworn statements, if required
Step-by-step process
- Case evaluation: We determine if the applicant qualifies under any Form I-360 category.
- Gathering evidence and supporting documents.
- Filing the application with USCIS with all necessary documentation.
- Review and possible Request for Evidence (RFE).
- Petition approval and possibility to file for adjustment of status (I-485) if located in the U.S.
- If the beneficiary is outside the country, the case may proceed via consular processing.
Common cases: VAWA, widows/widowers, and Special Immigrant Juveniles
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
Allows victims of domestic abuse to file their own petition without depending on their abuser. It also applies to male victims and parents.
Widows/Widowers of U.S. citizens
If your U.S. citizen spouse passed away, you may file the I-360 within two years of their death, regardless of whether he or she had filed a petition.
Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ)
Children and adolescents in the U.S. who were abused or abandoned can obtain legal status and eventual residence with court protection.
Frequent mistakes and practical tips
- Not submitting sufficient proof of the family relationship or the abuse.
- Confusing the I-360 with adjustment of status (I-485): they are distinct processes, although they may be processed together.
- Filing the application outside the permitted legal deadline, especially in widow(er) cases.
- Not consulting with a specialized attorney, which can lead to delays or denials.
👉 Each category has specific rules, and an incorrect filing can affect the outcome of your case.
Why choose Legalízate Ya?
At Legalízate Ya, we understand that behind every application there is a story of struggle, hope, and dignity.
Our legal team has nearly 30 years of combined experience helping immigrants obtain protection and legal residence through Form I-360.
We provide empathetic, strategic, and confidential support so that every client has the best possible chance of success.
📞 Contact us today
Do you believe you qualify for a petition under Form I-360?
Let us evaluate your case and help you take the next step toward your permanent residence.
Call us today at (956) 725-9714 or visit www.legalizateya.com/en to schedule your consultation.
Legalízate Ya — defending your rights, protecting your future.
