Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is a form of immigration protection available to certain children who have experienced abuse, abandonment, or neglect by one or both parents.
SIJS may allow eligible children to apply for lawful permanent residency and build a stable future in the United States.
These cases often involve both family court proceedings and immigration applications, making experienced legal representation extremely important.
The Two-Step SIJS Process
SIJS is unusual because it involves two different court systems. Both steps must be completed for the case to succeed.
- State court findings first: A state family, juvenile, or dependency court must make specific findings — generally that the child cannot be reunified with one or both parents due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and that returning to the home country is not in the child's best interest.
- Then the immigration petition: With those findings in hand, we file the SIJS petition with USCIS. If approved, the child may become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card).
Why Timing Matters
- Age limits: SIJS has age requirements, and a child can “age out” of eligibility. Because the state court step takes time, starting early is critical.
- Visa availability: Even after a petition is approved, there can be a wait before a green card becomes available, depending on current immigration backlogs. We help families understand the realistic timeline for their case.
How Gursoy Law Firm Helps SIJS Clients
- Evaluating SIJS eligibility
- Family court proceedings
- Preparing immigration applications
- Gathering supporting evidence and documentation
- Communicating with immigration authorities
- Pursuing lawful permanent residency
Why Choose Gursoy Law Firm for SIJS Cases
- Over 25 years of immigration law experience
- Experience handling SIJS and family-based immigration matters
- Personalized legal strategies for every case
- Dedicated support throughout the process
- Spanish-speaking support available
Recent SIJS & Immigration Results
- SIJS petition approved
- Green card approved
- Work permit granted
- Immigration relief successfully obtained
Frequently Asked Questions About SIJS
Who may qualify for SIJS?
Children who have experienced abuse, abandonment, or neglect by one or both parents may qualify depending on their circumstances.
Does SIJS lead to a green card?
In many cases, approved SIJS applicants may become eligible to apply for lawful permanent residency.
Do SIJS cases involve family court?
Yes. SIJS cases often require findings from a state family court in addition to immigration filings.
Why does SIJS involve two different courts?
SIJS first requires findings from a state family or juvenile court about the child's situation. Only after those findings are made can the immigration petition be filed with USCIS. Both steps are required.
Can a child age out of SIJS?
Yes. SIJS has age requirements, and because the state court step takes time, it is important to begin the process as early as possible to protect eligibility.