Since relocating to Indiana from Nigeria earlier this year, I’ve been living here on a pending VAWA self-petition. I filed the I-360 petition in March 2025 after leaving an abusive U.S. citizen spouse, and I included a work permit application (I-765) based on my VAWA case. I’m staying with friends for now and doing my best to rebuild, but I’m anxious because I haven’t heard anything back yet, not even a receipt. It’s been several months, and I’m worried about whether I did something wrong or if it’s just normal processing time. How long does it usually take to get a response, and what should I do next?

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

VAWA petitions often take several months to receive a receipt notice, especially if filed with a work permit. If it’s been more than 90 days and you haven’t received anything, consider contacting USCIS or submitting an e-request online.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

You can also call the USCIS Contact Center or ask a legal aid organization to help check the status. If your mailing address has changed, make sure you submitted Form AR-11 to update it; missing notices is a common issue.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

While delays are frustrating, your I-765 work permit based on a VAWA category typically takes 5 to 8 months or even more to process. Once approved, the EAD will let you work legally while waiting for your I-360 decision.

Chinonso Okafor

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