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

The primary benefit of a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card is that it allows foreign-born minors who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents to live and work permanently in the United States. It also provides them with the opportunity to eventually become citizens. Additionally, the SIJ Green Card provides holders with access to certain government benefits, such as Social Security, Medicaid, and food stamps. It also allows them to apply for and receive financial aid for college and other educational programs. Lastly, SIJ Green Card holders can travel in and out of the U.S. without fear of deportation or losing their legal immigration status.

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

The process of obtaining a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is a multi-step process. First, you must obtain an order from a state juvenile court declaring that you are dependent on the court or legally committed to an agency, or that it is not in your best interest to reunite with your parents. This court order must be issued in the state in which you live.

Second, you must file an I-360 petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must include the court order with the petition.

Third, if the I-360 petition is approved, you must file a Form I-485 to adjust your status to that of a permanent resident.

Finally, you must attend an interview with USCIS and provide documents to prove that you meet all of the eligibility requirements for the Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card category.

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

The eligibility requirements for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card are as follows:

1. The applicant must be under 21 years of age and unmarried.
2. The applicant must have been declared a dependent of a juvenile court or have been the subject of certain filings with the juvenile court which indicate the applicant has been subject to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
3. The juvenile court must have issued an order indicating it is in the best interest of the alien minor that he or she be declared dependent of the court or placed under the custody of a state agency, parent, relative, or other adult designated as responsible for the alien minor’s care and custody.
4. The applicant must be admissible to the United States.
5. The applicant must demonstrate that returning to their home country would not be in their best interest.

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

It typically takes between 8-10 months to process and receive a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card from the time all the necessary forms and documents are submitted.

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

The cost to file for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card is $1,225. This includes the I-360 petition fee, biometrics fee (if applicable), and the USCIS Immigrant Fee.

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

In order to apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card, you must provide the following documents:

1) Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued identification)
2) Proof of your age (such as a birth certificate or school records)
3) Evidence that you are a dependent minor (such as a guardianship order or adoption decree)
4) Evidence that you have been declared a dependent of a state juvenile court, or have had the care and custody of the court awarded to someone else in order to be eligible for long-term foster care or other similar guardian arrangement.
5) Evidence that it is not in your best interests to return to your home country (such as letters from counselors, social workers, or other professionals who have worked with you).
6) A copy of your visa or Permanent Resident Card (if applicable).

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

The U.S. Department of State has a comprehensive guide for applying for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card. The guide covers topics such as eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and the application process. The guide is available online at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2020/visa-bulletin-for-december-2020.html#sij.

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

To find out if you are eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card, you should consult with an immigration lawyer or a qualified and experienced immigration professional. They will be able to evaluate your case and determine if you meet the criteria and can provide you with more information about the 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, you cannot apply for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card if you are over 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?

In order to prove your relationship to your parent or guardian, you will need to provide evidence such as a birth certificate, an adoption decree, or a written statement from your parent or guardian. Additionally, you will need to obtain an order from a state court declaring you dependent on a state court or legally committed to, or placed under the custody of, an agency or department of a state.

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, also known as a Green Card. You will also receive a Social Security card and be allowed to work in the United States. You will be able to travel, live, and work in the US permanently. After 5 years of continuous residence in the United States, you may be eligible to apply for US citizenship.

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

It depends on the type and nature of the crime and also on the State court’s findings regarding the circumstances of the crime. Generally, a conviction may affect your eligibility for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status but you should consult with an immigration attorney to discuss your specific case.

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. As a green card holder, you can work in any occupation that is legal in the United States and have access to most benefits of U.S. citizens.

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

The Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card is valid for 10 years. It can be renewed at the end of that period.

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

No, you do not need to renew your Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card after it expires. Once you have obtained your Green Card, it is valid for 10 years and you do not need to renew it. If you wish to extend your stay in the United States beyond the 10-year period, you must apply for U.S. citizenship.

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

Yes, there is assistance available. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a Fee Waiver Program which allows eligible applicants to submit their forms without paying the filing fee. Additionally, some states may provide assistance to individuals and families with low-income. You should contact your state’s Department of Social Services or Department of Family Services to inquire about any assistance programs that may be available to you.

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, you will need to obtain a re-entry permit from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you leave. This permit will allow you to re-enter the United States after your travels abroad.

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

Yes. Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Green Card holders are subject to the same continuous presence requirements as other permanent residents. If a SIJ Green Card holder is outside the United States for more than 6 months, they must be able to demonstrate that their absence was temporary and for a legitimate purpose. If they are absent for more than 12 months, they may be considered to have abandoned their permanent resident status and be found inadmissible on their return.

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

Yes, you may be able to bring family members with you to the United States if you have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Green Card. This is known as “derivative” status. To qualify, your family members must meet certain eligibility requirements for derivative status and you must be able to demonstrate that the family members are dependent on you. For more information about derivative status and the requirements for family members, please speak with an immigration attorney.