Some children and teens come to the United States not by choice, but because they’ve been hurt or let down by the very people who were supposed to protect them. If you are in this situation, there may be a way forward through Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status.
This legal protection is designed for young people in the U.S. who cannot safely return to a parent or home country. If approved, it can lead to a green card and a more secure future.
To qualify for SIJ status, you must meet all of these conditions:
- Be under 21 years old and not married.
- Have a valid juvenile court order from a U.S. state court showing:
- You are in the custody of a state agency, guardian, or dependent on the court.
- You cannot reunite with one or both parents due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
- It is not in your best interest to return to your home country or your parents’ home country.
- Show that the court order was meant to protect you, not just to get immigration status.
The process can be confusing, and there are strict rules about how and when to apply. But you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to help you understand your rights, gather the right documents, and take the next step toward safety and stability.
