Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ)

Safe Futures Start Here: Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

Every child deserves safety, security, and a future filled with hope. At our New York-based immigration practice, we specialize in helping vulnerable children seek legal status through Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). If a child has been abused, abandoned, or neglected and cannot be reunited with one or both parents, SIJS may provide the protection and path to permanent residency they need.

What is SIJS, and Who Qualifies?

The federal immigration classification known as Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) allows certain undocumented children in the US to apply for a green card. To qualify, the child must:

Be younger than 21 and single.
have been placed in the custody of a state agency or a guardian appointed by the court, or have been declared dependent on a juvenile court.
Obtain a court ruling stating that abuse, abandonment, or neglect make it impossible to reunite with one or both parents.
Show that returning to their home country is not in their best interest.

Our experienced SIJS immigration attorney can guide you through the legal steps to meet these SIJ visa requirements and help ensure the child’s rights and safety are protected.

Legal Steps to Apply for SIJS in New York State

There are both state and federal procedures involved in applying for SIJS. This is a simplified version of the trip:

Proceedings of the State Family Court
A judge in the Family Court of New York must first issue a special findings order. The child’s eligibility for SIJS must be verified by this order.
Filing Form I-360 (Petition for Special Immigrant Juvenile)
Once the special findings order is granted, we help you file Form I-360 with USCIS to request SIJS classification.
Green Card Application
After USCIS approves the I-360, the child may be eligible to adjust status and apply for a green card (Form I-485), depending on visa availability.

Throughout the process, our team ensures full support and legal advocacy. Our goal is to help every eligible minor apply for SIJS in NY with confidence and clarity.

Why Choose Us?

Compassionate Representation: We treat each case with the sensitivity and care it deserves.
Expertise in Family and Immigration Law: Our team understands both court systems and can streamline the process.
Dedicated SIJS Immigration Attorney: We specialize in helping immigrant children and know how to navigate complex situations.

We’re passionate about providing juvenile immigrant protection and helping children secure legal status that can transform their lives.

Green Card for Abused Children: A Life-Changing Opportunity

Obtaining a green card for abused children through SIJS gives eligible minors more than just legal status; it provides access to education, healthcare, safety, and a brighter future. Children who receive SIJS may eventually become lawful permanent residents and even US citizens. This program can truly be life-changing for young people who have endured difficult circumstances.

FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for SIJS?

To qualify, the child must be under 21 at the time of filing the I-360 and must be unmarried.

Do both parents need to be abusive or neglectful?

No. All the court has to do is conclude that abuse, abandonment, or neglect make reunification with one or both parents impracticable.

Can a child apply for SIJS in NY while in removal proceedings?

Yes. SIJS can be a powerful form of relief from deportation, and we help many minors in immigration court seek protection through SIJS.

Can SIJS recipients sponsor family members later?

SIJS recipients cannot sponsor their parents and may face limitations in sponsoring siblings until after naturalization.

Let Us Help You Protect a Child’s Future

If you’re seeking a safe, secure path to legal residency for a vulnerable child, we’re here to help. Our skilled SIJS immigration attorney will guide you every step of the way, from family court to green card approval.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin the journey toward juvenile immigrant protection.

Office

75 S Broadway, Suite 400, White Plains, NY 10601

Call

(914) 704-0515

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