Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status
At Global Esquire Law Firm, we provide dedicated legal support for children and young adults seeking Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status in the United States. This critical immigration benefit is designed for individuals under 21 years of age who cannot reunite with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. SIJ status offers a pathway to lawful permanent residency, enabling vulnerable youth to establish a secure and stable future.
Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a unique immigration classification for children and young adults under 21 years old who are already in the United States. This pathway is specifically for those who have been declared dependent on a juvenile or family court and who cannot safely return to their home country due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or a similar reason recognized under state law.
With SIJ status, eligible individuals can:
- Obtain lawful permanent residency (a green card).
- Avoid deportation and remain in the United States legally.
Gain access to educational and employment opportunities available to green card holders.
To qualify for SIJ status, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be under 21 years of age at the time of filing.
- Be unmarried.
- Have a juvenile court order declaring they are dependent on the court or placed in the custody of a state agency, individual, or entity.
- Have a court finding that reunification with one or both parents is not viable due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or a similar basis.
- Demonstrate that it is not in their best interest to return to their home country.
At Global Esquire Law Firm, we offer comprehensive support throughout the SIJ process, including:
- Juvenile Court Representation: Assisting with obtaining the required findings from a juvenile or family court.
- Filing SIJ Petitions: Preparing and submitting Form I-360 (Petition for Special Immigrant Juvenile) to USCIS.
- Green Card Applications: Supporting eligible individuals in applying for lawful permanent residency after SIJ approval.
- Immigration Advocacy: Addressing delays or challenges in the SIJ process and advocating for the best outcomes.
- Experienced Team: Our attorneys specialize in the intersection of family and immigration law, ensuring skilled representation in juvenile courts and before USCIS.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and provide personalized, empathetic guidance for applicants and their guardians.
- Comprehensive Services: From juvenile court proceedings to green card applications, we assist with every step of the SIJ process.
What happens if the applicant turns 21 during the process?
As long as the SIJ petition was filed before the applicant’s 21st birthday, they can still proceed with the process, even if they turn 21 while the application is pending.
Does SIJ status grant a green card automatically?
No, SIJ status is the first step. After SIJ approval, applicants must file for lawful permanent residency (a green card) separately.
Can a parent gain immigration benefits from their child’s SIJ status?
No, SIJ status does not provide any immigration benefits to the applicant’s parents.
Is there a deadline to apply for SIJ status?
There is no specific deadline, but eligibility is limited to individuals under 21 who are unmarried. Acting quickly ensures that all necessary court orders and filings are completed on time.
Navigating the process of Special Immigrant Juvenile status can be complex, but with the right legal team by your side, it becomes manageable and achievable. At Global Esquire Law Firm, we are here to help you or your loved one secure a brighter future through SIJ status.
Phone: 1888-429-4789
Email: info@globalesquire.com
Location: 8 W. 126th Street, New York, NY 10027
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