Green Card Options for Certain Special Immigrant Juveniles

1. What are the benefits of a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


The Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card provides a pathway to lawful permanent residence and U.S. citizenship for children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both of their parents. This green card status gives these youth the opportunity to live and work legally in the United States, access educational opportunities, and eventually sponsor family members for green cards. The SIJ green card also provides protection from removal or deportation.

2. What is the process of obtaining a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


The Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card process involves four steps:

1. Filing an I-360 Petition with USCIS: The first step is to file an I-360 petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition must be accompanied by evidence and documents that establish that the juvenile meets the eligibility requirements for a special immigrant juvenile.

2. Receiving Approval from USCIS: After USCIS reviews and approves the I-360 petition, the applicant will receive a Notification of Action (Form I-797) from USCIS. This form will indicate that the petitioner has been approved for a special immigrant juvenile green card.

3. Applying for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): The applicant must then file Form I-485 with USCIS in order to apply for adjustment of status and obtain a green card. The applicant must also provide evidence of their identity, good character, and other relevant documents.

4. Going Through Biometrics Appointment: Finally, the applicant must attend a biometrics appointment at a designated USCIS office in order to provide fingerprints, photos, and signature for background and security checks. Once this appointment is completed, the applicant may be granted a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card.

3. What are the eligibility requirements for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


In order to be eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card, an applicant must:

-Be under the age of 21

-Be unmarried at the time of application (in some states, this age requirement can be extended)

-Have been declared a dependent of a juvenile court located in the United States or have had such a case filed with the court

-Have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both of their parents in their home country. This abuse must meet the standards of the state in which the court is located.

-Be unable to reunify with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or other similar requirement under state law

-Demonstrate that it is not in his or her best interest to return to his or her home country

4. How long does it take to get a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


It typically takes 6 to 9 months to receive a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card after the I-360 form is filed with USCIS. Processing times vary depending on the USCIS district office.

5. How much does it cost to get a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


There is no fee to file Form I-360 for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card. You may be required to pay a one-time charge of $220 for a biometric services (fingerprinting) appointment.

6. What documents are needed to apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


To apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant
• Copy of the court order showing that you meet the requirements of a “Special Immigrant Juvenile”
• Copy of your birth certificate
• Proof of your identity (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
• Proof of your relationship to a parent or legal guardian (if applicable)
• Copies of any other supporting documents (school records, medical records, other court orders, etc.)
• Affidavits from people who can testify that you meet the requirements for a “Special Immigrant Juvenile”
• Two passport-style photos

7. Where can I find information on the steps involved in applying for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


You can find information on the steps involved in applying for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card on the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Information is available on the USCIS website including eligibility requirements, the application process, required forms, and more. Additionally, you can contact a qualified immigration attorney for advice and guidance.

8. How can I find out if I am eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


To determine eligibility for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card, applicants must consult with an immigration attorney who is knowledgeable about the U.S. immigration laws and procedures. An immigration attorney can help you understand the eligibility requirements for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card and help determine if you qualify. Additionally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website also provides information and resources about the Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card process.

9. Are there any age restrictions for eligibility for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


Yes. To be eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card, applicants must be under the age of 21.

10. Can I apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card if I am over 18 years of age?


No, the Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is only available to those who are under 18 years old.

11. How can I prove my relationship to my parent or guardian in order to be eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


The proof of relationship with the parent or guardian must be established through official government documents. This could include birth certificates, adoption records, court orders, or other forms of legal documentation. It is important to maintain accurate records of all proof provided to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in order to avoid any delays in processing the application.

12. What happens after my application for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is approved?


Once your application for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is approved, you will receive a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). You can then apply for a Social Security card and any other documents you need to work, apply for benefits, or travel outside the U.S. You will also be able to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of holding a Green Card (if you meet certain requirements).

13. Can I still apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card if I have been convicted of a crime?


It is possible to still be eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card if you have been convicted of a crime, depending on the type of crime and your state’s laws. However, it is important to note that any criminal history may affect your eligibility for a Green Card.

14. Are there any limitations on the types of jobs I can do with a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


No, there are no limitations on the types of jobs you can do with a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card. You are free to work in any field that interests you.

15. How long is my Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card valid for?


Your Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is valid for 10 years.

16. Do I need to renew my Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card after it expires?


Yes, you need to renew your Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card as it is valid for two years and must be renewed before it expires.

17. Is there any assistance available to pay the fees associated with my application for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


Yes, you may be able to seek assistance from a community-based organization or nonprofit legal services organization. Many of these organizations provide free or low-cost legal assistance to immigrants who may not be able to afford the fees associated with the application. Additionally, the USCIS offers fee waivers for certain applications, including the application for Special Immigrant Juvenile status. You should contact your local USCIS office to see if you are eligible for a fee waiver.

18. Can I travel outside the United States if I have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


Yes, you can travel outside the United States with a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card. However, it is important to note that you will need to obtain an advance parole document from USCIS before you can re-enter the United States.

19. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay outside the United States if I have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


The Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card does not have a set limit for how long a holder can stay outside of the United States. It is recommended that Green Card holders consult with an immigration lawyer or with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before leaving the country for an extended period of time.

20. Can I bring family members with me to the United States if I have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card?


Yes, you can bring family members with you to the United States if you have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card. You may be eligible to apply for a visa for your immediate family members, such as a spouse, child, or parent. Your family members must meet all the requirements for a visa and be able to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge in the United States.