SIJ
The Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) visa is a powerful immigration option designed to help children and young people who are in the United States without lawful status and who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both parents.
If you—or your child—qualify, SIJ status can lead to a green card (lawful permanent residence).
Who may qualify for SIJ?
To be eligible, you must:
Be under 21 years old at the time of applying,
Be unmarried,
Be declared dependent in a state juvenile court (such as through foster care, guardianship, or custody proceedings), and
Have a court order stating:
That you cannot be reunited with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, and
That it is not in your best interest to return to your home country.
What are the benefits of SIJ?
You can apply for a green card without needing a family or employment sponsor.
You are protected from deportation once SIJ status is granted.
Certain inadmissibility grounds may be waived, making it more flexible than other immigration paths.
Important to know:
SIJ does not allow you to sponsor your parents in the future.
The process involves both juvenile court and immigration filings, so it’s important to act quickly and carefully.
This is a very special opportunity for young people in difficult situations to find safety and stability in the U.S. If you think this may apply to you or someone you care about, request a consultation today.