Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)
Wait requiredQuick Summary
- Who: Children declared dependent on a juvenile court due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment
- Wait time: Wait required (~12–36 after court order months)
- Total estimated time: 12–36 after court order months
Description
For children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned and who have a court order recognizing this.
Who Qualifies
Tips to Speed Up and Prevent Denial
🔴 Avoid Denial
- For SIJS: every state juvenile court system is different. Some states issue SIJS findings routinely; others are much harder. Find a lawyer who has experience with SIJS orders specifically in your state's court system. A lawyer who knows family law AND immigration law is ideal.
🟢 Speed
- If the child is approaching their 21st birthday, file the I-360 the moment the court order is in hand. Do not wait. The petition must be filed before the 21st birthday. Once they turn 21, this path is permanently closed.
🔵 Quality
- G-4 employees must apply within 6 months of ending G-4 status or retiring. Mark this deadline on your calendar well in advance and consult an immigration lawyer at least a year before you plan to retire or leave the organization.