“Extreme Cruelty” for cancellation does not require physical abuse

The Board of Immigration Appeals(BIA) recent ruled that to qualify for “extreme cruelty” cancellation of removal, physical abuse is not required.  As long as the actions are severe enough to inflict mental harm to the alien, it will be sufficient to qualify for cancellation of removal relief.

In this case, the immigration judge denied the respondent’s application for cancellation, concluding that the abuse was not severe enough.  Respondent’s husband was an alcoholic and gambler.  The BIA disagreed with the judge finding the abuse severe enough and reversed judge’s decision.

 We have done similar cases before where the abuse was not physical.  If you believe you are the victim of an abused relationship and you need immigration status, please contact us for evaluation.