Are you under the age of 21 and living in the United States without legal status? Did you enter the United States illegally? If you have suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment, then you may be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). This is the first step to acquiring lawful Permanent Resident status in the United States. In order to be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be under 21 years old;
- Be unmarried;
- Be declared dependent upon the state;
- Reunification with a parent is no longer a viable option; and
- It would not be in your best interest to return to your country of nationality or last habitual residence.
Whether you have been abused, neglected, or abandoned inside or outside the United States, you may be eligible for permanent residence. With your Permanent Residence, you will be allowed to stay in the U.S. and ultimately work, attend college or pursue other goals.
Are you in Removal or Deportation Proceedings?
Even if you are in Removal or Deportation proceedings, you may still be eligible for permanent residence through the SIJS program. Once your SIJS Petition has been approved, we will take the necessary steps to either terminate removal or deportation proceedings. Alternatively, we will request the Immigration Court approve your application for Adjustment of Status.
If you believe you qualify for SIJS status or other paths to legal residency, we are here to help. We urge you to contact our office for a free consultation with one of our Carrollton immigration lawyers to discuss your eligibility.
