Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

Are you under the age of 21 and living in the U.S. without legal status? Did you enter the U.S. illegally? If you have suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment, you may be eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). This is the first step in acquiring lawful permanent residence in the United States. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Be under 21 years of age;
2. Be single;
3. Be declared dependent on the state;
4. Reunification with the parents is no longer a viable option; and
5. It would not be in your best interest to return to your country of nationality or last habitual residence.

If you have been a victim of abuse, neglect or abandonment inside or outside the United States, you may be eligible for permanent residency. With your Permanent Residency, you will be allowed to remain in the United States and eventually attend college or pursue other goals.

Are you in Removal or Deportation Proceedings?

Even if you are under removal or deportation proceedings, you may still be eligible for permanent residence through the SIJS program. Once your SIJS petition is approved, we will take the necessary steps to terminate removal or deportation proceedings. Alternatively, we will apply to the Immigration Court to approve your petition for Adjustment of Status.

If you believe you qualify for SIJS status or other paths to permanent residency, we are here to help. We urge you to contact our office for a free consultation with one of our Dallas immigration attorneys to discuss your eligibility.