Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) in New York
A pathway to a green card for young people who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
Why SIJS Matters
- SIJS offers a route to a green card for young people in vulnerable situations.
- Those with a pending SIJS petition are generally protected from deportation and may qualify for work authorization.
- Most young people who pursue SIJS with legal help are successful in securing status. (ILRC, 2024)
Who Is Eligible for SIJS?
You may qualify for SIJS if:
- Are under 21 and unmarried
- Are involved in a state juvenile court case (family court, guardianship, child welfare, or juvenile justice)
- Cannot live with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment (definitions vary by state)
- The court finds it is not in your best interest to return to your country of origin
Examples of eligibility:
- Suffering physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or abandonment by a parent
- A parent passing away and the remaining parent struggling to provide care
- Growing up without support or contact from one parent
What Are the Benefits of SIJS?
Once your SIJS petition is filed:
- ICE should not take enforcement action against you
- Most removal (deportation) cases can be paused or dismissed
Once your SIJS petition is approved:
- You may receive “deferred action,” protecting you from deportation and allowing you to apply for a work permit
- Deferred action is renewable if you’re waiting for a visa
Once you receive your green card:
- You can live and work in the U.S. indefinitely
- You may qualify for federal financial aid and some public benefits (varies by state)
- After five years, you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship
- SIJS is only for the applicant—family members cannot be included
- You cannot use SIJS to help your parents obtain immigration status
- There may be a wait for a visa to become available before you can apply for your green card
- Even with a green card, certain criminal convictions can lead to deportation—always seek legal advice
- Experienced in guiding young people and families through the SIJS process
- Compassionate, bilingual (Spanish/English) support at every step
- Clear, honest answers to your questions—no false promises
- Trusted by immigrant families across New York City
