SIJS and Green Cards for Children

SIJS and Green Cards for Children

Immigration Law Attorney

Helping Vulnerable Children Obtain Protection and Permanent Residence

Services We Provide:

  • Guardianship Proceedings in Family Court
  • Special Findings Orders
  • Form I-360 (SIJS Petition)
  • Form I-485 Adjustment of Status
  • Work Authorization
  • Waivers and Related Immigration Relief

100K+

Children Protected Through SIJS Relief

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is a powerful form of immigration relief that can help certain unmarried children and young adults who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents obtain lawful permanent residence in the United States. SIJS is often available to children living with relatives, guardians, or other caregivers who have stepped in to provide the stability and support their parents were unable to provide.

The process typically begins in state family court, where a judge may appoint a guardian and issue special findings regarding abuse, neglect, abandonment, and the child’s best interests. Those findings can then support an SIJS petition with USCIS and, if approved, an application for a green card.

At Ask Quintanilla Law, we guide families through every stage of the SIJS process, from guardianship proceedings to USCIS filings and adjustment of status. We understand how emotionally significant these cases are and work diligently to protect vulnerable children and help them build secure futures in the United States.

If your child, niece, nephew, or other young family member may qualify for SIJS, contact Ask Quintanilla Law to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced SIJS attorney serving Long Island and New York City.

Why should I hire Ask Quintanilla Law?2026-06-30T23:46:39+00:00

We provide compassionate, detail-oriented representation to protect vulnerable children and guide families through both Family Court and USCIS proceedings.

Can SIJS lead to citizenship?2026-06-30T23:46:08+00:00

Yes. After obtaining lawful permanent residence and meeting other requirements, the child may later apply for naturalization.

Does SIJS automatically provide a green card?2026-06-30T23:45:36+00:00

SIJS first requires approval of Form I-360. Eligible applicants may then apply for adjustment of status when a visa number becomes available.

Can a child qualify if only one parent was abusive or neglectful?2026-06-30T23:45:05+00:00

Yes. In many cases, SIJS may be available when reunification with only one parent is not viable.

Does a child need to be living with a parent to qualify?2026-06-30T23:44:31+00:00

No. Many SIJS applicants live with relatives, guardians, or other trusted caregivers.

What does SIJS stand for?2026-06-30T23:43:52+00:00

SIJS stands for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, a form of immigration relief for certain children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.

Eligibility and Benefits of SIJS

A child or young adult may qualify for SIJS if they:

  • Are unmarried;
  • Meet the applicable age requirements under state and federal law;
  • Have been declared dependent on a juvenile court or placed under the custody of a guardian or similar custodian;
  • Cannot reunify with one or both parents because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment; and
  • It is not in their best interest to return to their country of nationality.

Benefits may include:

  • Protection from removal;
  • Eligibility for work authorization;
  • Lawful permanent residence; and
  • A path toward eventual U.S. citizenship.
Byron Quintanilla

Injured? You Still Have Legal Rights

Your immigration status should not prevent you from seeking justice after an accident. If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, Ask Quintanilla Law can explain your legal options, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to receive. All consultations are confidential, and we’re here to provide trusted guidance every step of the way.

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