Humanitarian · Protection → green card
SIJSpecial Immigrant Juvenile
A protection-based path to a green card that requires findings from a state juvenile or family court before a petition can be filed.
At a glance
- Who it’s for
- Unmarried young people under 21 in the U.S. who cannot reunify with a parent due to abuse, neglect or abandonment.
- Who files
- Child petitions after state court order
- Duration
- Leads to permanent residence
- Family
- Applicant only
- General standard
- A qualifying state court order — including that return to the home country is not in the child’s best interest — followed by a federal petition.
How we help
How Liberra supports your SIJ case
- 1
Attorney engagement
SIJ requires a state court process led by a licensed attorney.
- 2
Records & translations
Birth records, school records and translations are collected.
- 3
Petition support
Documents for the federal petition are organized and checked.
- 4
Green card stage
Visa availability and next steps are tracked as they come up.
Attorney-led matter. SIJ cases are handled by an independent licensed attorney you engage directly. Liberra supports documentation, translations and organization under the attorney’s direction and keeps everything visible in your dashboard.
Liberra prepares and organizes documentation and coordinates your case. Legal advice and representation, where needed, are provided by independent licensed attorneys under a separate engagement.
Common questions
SIJ, in plain English
Often a fit for
- Young people under 21
- Guardians and families supporting them
Why is timing so important?+
Age limits apply at specific stages. Contact an attorney early.
Does Liberra go to court?+
No. Court proceedings are handled by your attorney. We help organize records and documents.
General information only. Not legal advice. Requirements change; your case is reviewed individually.
Related pathways
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