Special Immigrant Juvenile status (SIJ)
If you are in the United States and need the protection of a juvenile court because you have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent, you may be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification.
If SIJ classification is granted, you may qualify for lawful permanent residency (Green Card).
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for SIJ:
- You must be under the age of 21 at the time the SIJ petition (Form I-360) is filled;
- You must be currently living in the United States;
- You cannot be married; and
- You must have a valid juvenile court order issued by a state court in the United States which finds that you are dependent on the court, or in the custody of a state agency or department or an individual or entity appointed by the court and you cannot be reunified with one or both of your parents due to abuse, abandonment, neglect, or a similar basis under state law.
Application and Authorization Process
After you file your Form I-360, USCIS will send you a Notice of Action, which is your receipt showing the official filing date and receipt number and may contact you for additional evidence if needed it to make a decision on your case.
Time duration for approval
6 months
Forms required to be submitted for this application
- I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant
Information that you will have to provide
- Evidence of your age
- Valid juvenile court order
How we can help
Our attorneys are available for consultation to discuss your options and responsibilities. To start the process:
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