SPECIAL IMMIGRANT JUVENILE STATUS

Helping Vulnerable Children Find Safety and Stability


Children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected deserve safety, stability, and the chance to build a better future. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) provides a path to lawful permanent residence (a green card) for immigrant children in the United States who meet specific eligibility requirements.


Our experienced immigration attorneys are committed to helping minors and their families navigate this complex legal process with care, compassion, and expertise.


What is Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is a form of humanitarian relief created by U.S. immigration law. It allows certain undocumented minors to apply for lawful permanent residency if a state court has determined that:

  • The child cannot reunite with one or both parents due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
  • It is not in the child’s best interest to return to their country of origin.
  • The child is under 21 years old and unmarried at the time of filing.


Who is Eligible for SIJS?

To qualify for SIJS, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be under 21 years old and unmarried.
  • Be present in the United States.
  • Have a valid juvenile court order showing that:
  • The child is dependent on the court or in the custody of a state agency or individual appointed by the court.
  • Reunification with one or both parents is not possible due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
  • Returning to their home country is not in the child’s best interest.


Benefits of Special Immigrant Juvenile Status

With SIJS approval, a child may:

  • Apply for lawful permanent residency (green card).
  • Live and work legally in the United States.
  • Eventually apply for U.S. citizenship, once eligible.
  • Gain protection from deportation.


The SIJS Application Process

The SIJS process involves multiple steps and agencies, including state courts and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

  1. State Court Findings – Obtain a juvenile court order with the necessary findings.
  2. Filing Form I-360 – Submit the SIJS petition to USCIS.
  3. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) – Apply for a green card once a visa number is available.
  4. Follow-Up & Compliance – Respond to USCIS requests and attend any necessary interviews.


Challenges and Considerations

  • Timing is Critical – Applications must be filed before the child turns 21 and while they remain unmarried.
  • Complex Court Process – Coordinating between family courts and immigration agencies requires legal expertise.
  • Visa Backlogs – Some countries experience waiting periods for green card eligibility.
  • Documentation – Strong evidence of abuse, abandonment, or neglect is essential.


How Our Firm Can Help

Navigating SIJS can be overwhelming without experienced legal support. Our firm provides:

  • Guidance through the state court process.
  • Preparation and filing of all immigration petitions and supporting documentation.
  • Advocacy for the child’s best interests throughout the process.
  • Representation before USCIS and in any related hearings.

We combine compassion with legal skill to ensure minors have the strongest chance of securing protection and stability in the United States.


Take the First Step Toward a Safer Future

If you or someone you know may qualify for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, don’t wait—time is critical. Contact our law firm today for a confidential consultation and let our experienced attorneys guide you through the process with care and dedication.