SIJS provides a path to lawful permanent residency for children in the U.S. who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. Our attorneys help protect vulnerable young people and secure their future.
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is a form of humanitarian immigration relief available to children present in the United States who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. SIJS allows qualifying children to obtain lawful permanent residency (a green card) and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
Congress created SIJS to protect children who cannot safely return to their home country and who have been failed by at least one parent. It recognizes that these children deserve a safe and stable future in the United States.
Once SIJS classification is granted by USCIS, the child can apply for a green card. This provides permanent legal status, work authorization, and eventually eligibility for U.S. citizenship.
SIJS involves both state court and federal immigration proceedings. Our attorneys handle both aspects of your case.
We assess the child's eligibility by reviewing their history of abuse, neglect, or abandonment and their current circumstances in the U.S.
We file a petition in Massachusetts state court to obtain the required Special Findings Order declaring the child dependent and that reunification is not viable.
With the state court order in hand, we file Form I-360 with USCIS to obtain SIJS classification for the child.
Once SIJS classification is approved, we file for adjustment of status so the child receives their permanent green card.
Obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States, providing stability and security.
Receive employment authorization to work legally in the U.S. upon turning the appropriate age.
SIJS provides protection from deportation and a safe haven for vulnerable children.
After receiving a green card, the child may eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
There is no USCIS filing fee for the SIJS petition (Form I-360).
With legal status, children can access educational opportunities, financial aid, and scholarships.
In Massachusetts, children must be under 21 and unmarried to qualify for SIJS. However, the state court findings must generally be obtained before the child turns 21. It is critical to begin the process as early as possible, as turning 21 before the state court order is obtained can eliminate eligibility.
No. While children in foster care or DCF custody may qualify, SIJS is also available to children living with a guardian, relative, or other custodian. The key requirement is obtaining a state court order with the necessary findings about abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
Yes. A child's immigration status at the time of entry does not disqualify them from SIJS. Children who entered without inspection, overstayed visas, or have no immigration status can still apply. SIJS is specifically designed to help vulnerable children regardless of how they came to the U.S.
The timeline depends on several factors, including the state court process and USCIS processing times. The state court portion typically takes a few months. The USCIS petition and green card application can vary. For children from certain countries, there may be a wait for a visa number. Starting early is essential to ensure the process is completed while the child is still eligible.
After Hours Emergency: 617.354.3434
Office: (617) 417-1145
WhatsApp: (617) 417-1145
Falamos Português! Hablamos Español!