With immediate effect, USCIS is updating the guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual (PDF, 343.18 KB) pertaining to the adjudication of Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petitions. This modification aims to enhance the efficiency of the SIJ adjudication process for certain applicants.
The revision aligns with the declaratory order in Casa Libre/Freedom House v. Mayorkas issued on July 31, 2023. Notably, the 180-day timeframe for USCIS to adjudicate an SIJ petition is applicable solely to the initial adjudication of an SIJ petition. It does not extend to the review of any subsequent motion or appeal filed following the denial of an SIJ petition.
SIJ stands as an immigration classification designed for noncitizens in the United States who require the protection of a juvenile court due to being subjected to abuse, abandonment, or neglect by a parent. Those eligible may seek SIJ classification by utilizing Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. Noncitizens with SIJ classification may potentially qualify for lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as obtaining a Green Card.
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