SIJS is an immigration benefit for minors in the United States who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. To be eligible you must be under 21, unmarried, and have a state‑court order stating that reunification with the offending parent(s) is not viable and that returning to your home country is not in your best interest.
Yes. After USCIS approves your Special Immigrant Juvenile petition (Form I‑360) you can file for adjustment of status (Form I‑485). Once approved, you receive lawful permanent residence — commonly called a green card.
Key requirements include:
Time frames vary by country of origin. The I‑360 petition may take 6‑12 months. If your priority date is current, adjustment of status can add another 12‑18 months. Backlogs for some countries can extend wait times, so early filing is critical.
Absolutely. An SIJS lawyer coordinates the state‑court proceedings, prepares the immigration filings, and ensures that all eligibility criteria are met. Mistakes can delay or jeopardize your green‑card path, so professional guidance is strongly recommended.
Children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned may qualify for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), offering them a path to lawful permanent residency. Our experienced attorneys are committed to protecting immigrant youth, guiding them through the process with care and legal expertise.
Immigrant youth deserve stability and legal protection. Let us help you navigate the SIJS process and secure a better future.