EN 
ES SIJS (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status)
We help immigrant children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned obtain lawful immigration status.
What is Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?
SIJS provides eligible children under 21, unmarried, and in U.S. state juvenile court dependency who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent, with a pathway to lawful permanent residency via Form I‑360 and USCIS consent. In New York State, SIJS cases begin in Family Court, where the court must make “special findings” including best-interest determinations and parental harm. Our firm handles SIJS cases exclusively in New York, guiding youngsters through guardianship or custody proceedings, SIJS petitions, and federal filings.
Upon a favorable state court order and USCIS approval, the child may apply for adjustment of status and receive a green card, even if they entered unlawfully or accumulated unlawful presence. Work authorization and travel permission may also follow, subject to USCIS adjudication and visa availability under EB‑4 quota limits .
Who is eligible for SIJS?
A child must be under 21, unmarried, residing in the U.S., and have a dependency/custody or guardianship court order in New York finding abuse, abandonment, or neglect, and that reunification is not viable.
What are “special findings”?
New York Family Court must explicitly find: (1) court dependency or custody; (2) parental maltreatment; (3) reunification is not viable; and (4) that it is in the child’s best interests not to return to the home country.
Can SIJS kids get a green card?
Yes, once USCIS approves Form I‑360, the child can adjust status to a green card holder, bypassing unlawful entry/admission bars.
What about work authorization documents (EAD)?
Effective 2025, USCIS has ceased offering work permits under the C14 category for SIJS recipients, irrespective of an approved I-360 petition. The previous discretionary policy, which allowed for the issuance of “Deferred Action” for work authorization to SIJS applicants awaiting a Green Card due to backlogs, is no longer in effect.
Is there a backlog for SIJS green cards?
Yes, because SIJS falls under the EB‑4 employment-based category, there are annual numerical limits. Approved youth may wait several years for visa availability
Why Choose Z&W Law Firm?
Strategic and Personalized Legal Support
We tailor our approach to fit your specific situation and immigration goals.
Proven Experience Across All Immigration Matters
From family petitions to deportation defense, we bring proven expertise across every area of U.S. immigration law.
Multilingual and Culturally Sensitive Representation
We speak your language and understand your background, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported.
Strong Track Record and Experience with Complex Cases
We’re not afraid of challenges. Our team has successfully handled difficult cases with commitment and results.
Dreaming of a New Beginning
We’re here to make it happen
With expert legal guidance and a team that truly cares, your path to a better future starts today.
How to Schedule a Consultation
An easy process!
Contact Us
To request a consultation, complete our registration form or reach out to our team via WhatsApp at +1 (929) 994-1184 or email us at info@zwlawoffice.com.
Please let us know briefly what type of immigration help you're seeking.
Book Your Free Virtual Consultation
Your first consultation is completely free and will take place via Google Meet. The session lasts 30 minutes and allows us to understand your case and answer your initial questions.
If you prefer an in-person appointment, please note that a consultation fee will apply.
Prepare for Your Meeting
To make the most of your consultation, please have your immigration documents ready to share or bring with you.
After your appointment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with any next steps, including how to begin your case with our firm.
