Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

SIJS is a legal way for certain young people who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent to get a green card (permanent residency) in the United States.

Young people under 21 who cannot safely reunite with one or both parents because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and for whom it is not in their best interest to return to their home country.

If granted SIJS, a young person can:

• Get a green card (become a permanent resident).
• Eventually apply for citizenship.
• Legally work in the U.S.

It's a two-step process:

1. A state court (like a juvenile or family court) must declare that the young person fits the criteria.
2. After getting the state court order, the young person applies for the actual SIJS and green card with U.S. immigration.

SIJS is a special process, and it is essential to get legal advice before proceeding. If you or someone you know might qualify, reach out for a consultation.