The juvenile status is a legal lifeline for many young migrants in vulnerable situations. Now, with the youth visa approved, what’s next? Today, with our specialists, we will look at all the information you need to successfully continue your immigration process.
If you do not know how to proceed with your immigration process, Zava Immigration Law Group can help you. Our attorneys have the knowledge and dedication necessary to accompany you every step of the way through the immigration system. Contact us today and get the quality legal help you need.
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What happens to my juvenile visa application if my case is linked to a criminal case?
When the SIJS case is related to a criminal case, the situation can be complex. USCIScarefully evaluates any findings of juvenile delinquency, criminal charges, arrests or convictions in connection with your application.
In some cases, a criminal record may negatively influence the approval of your application. Therefore, it is essential to seek legal guidance to properly handle these situations. At Zava Immigration Law Group, our professionals can help you meet these challenges. Talk to an attorney and put your process on the road to success.
Juvenile Visa Approved: What’s Next?
With an approved juvenile visa, the next step is to obtain permanent residency by filing Form I-485 and meeting certain eligibility criteria. Also note that, with an approved Form I-360, you can enter the country without any problems.
However, you must make sure you have the necessary documents and follow the specific steps of this process. All of this can be overwhelming, so it is best to have an immigration attorney. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Talk to a lawyer and take the first step towards permanent residency.
How do I know if my youth visa application has been approved?
If you have an approved juvenile visa, USICS will send a Form I-797 (Notice of Action) after the interview with an immigration officer. However, if you do not receive a written decision, you can check the status of your case on the USCIS website using the Form I-360 receipt number.
It is vital to be clear about how USCIS will communicate its decision to you, as this is the basis for how your immigration process will continue. For this reason, it is advisable to seek an immigration lawyer in case of any problem. Do not despair. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Tell us about your case and get the legal help you need.
Eligibility for permanent residency with an approved juvenile visa
To obtain permanent residency based on the SIJS classification, you must meet the following requirements requirements:
- Have an approved or pending youth visa (Form I-360) classifying you as an SIJ to be eligible to receive an immigrant visa.
- Have been inspected and admitted or have a permit for temporary stay in the United States.
- Be admissible to the United States or be eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility.
- Be physically present in the United States at the time of filing Form I-485.
- Be eligible to receive an immigrant visa (in this case, you must submit a pending and/or approved Form I-360 along with Form I-485).
What documents must I submit for adjustment of status based on an approved juvenile visa?
To obtain permanent residency based on your approved youth visa, you will need to submit the following documentation:
- Form I-485Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
- Copy of Form I-797 (Notice of Action) of the approved Form I-360 (unless filed with the I-485).
- Two passport style photos.
- Government-issued identity card (if you have one).
- Birth certificate.
- Passport page with non-immigrant visa (if applicable).
- Passport page with admission stamp or conditional permission (if applicable).
- Form I-94 or entry/exit stamp (if applicable).
- Form I-693, Medical Report and Immunization Record.
- Police and court records (if applicable).
- Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Inadmissibility (if applicable).
- Documentation of J-1 or J-2 status, including proof of compliance with or waiver of the 2-year overseas requirement (if applicable).
Filing the documentation is a key step in obtaining adjustment of status based on your approved juvenile visa. However, doing so in a timely manner can be a difficult task. But do not despair. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Contact us today and let’s get your paperwork in order.
How do I apply for permanent residency based on an approved juvenile visa?
To apply for permanent residency based on your approved juvenile visa you will need to follow the steps below:
Step 1: Verify visa availability (EB-4)
Please refer to the Visa Bulletin to confirm the availability of youth visas. To do so, you should note that immigrant visas for SIJ status are in the fourth preference category (EB-4) based on employment for special immigrants.
Step 2: Submit Form I-485 along with additional required documentation
Once the availability of EB-4 visas has been checked, submit Form I-485 along with the additional documentation mentioned above. Note that you may file Form I-485 and Form I-360 simultaneously.
Step 3: Payment of fees
Check the filing fees and possible exemptions applicable to your specific case. Petitioners for VAWA or asylum or refugee status are fully exempt from paying adjustment of status application fees.
Step 4: Consider Deportation Status and Grounds for Inadmissibility
If you have a ground of inadmissibility, you must apply for a waiver through Form I-601. On the other hand, if you are in deportation proceedings If you are in deportation proceedings, you should be aware that USCIS may not have jurisdiction over your case until your situation is resolved.
The status adjustment process is extremely complex and varies from case to case. Therefore, seeking legal guidance is essential to ensure a successful process. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Contact our attorneys today and take the first step towards your permanent legal status in the United States.
How long does it take to get a Youth Visa Residency?
Under current law, USCIS must resolve the I-360 application within 180 days of filing. However, even if there is no legal recourse for non-compliance, it is advisable to seek legal advice in the event of non-compliance with this deadline.
Is there an age limit for filing an application for permanent residence through an approved youth visa?
There is no age limit to apply for permanent residence under SIJS. If you were under 21 years of age when you filed Form I-360, USCIS will not deny your application for adjustment of status based on SIJS even if you are over 21 years of age at the time the Form I-485 is filed or adjudicated.
Can I apply for a work permit and leave the country with my approved juvenile visa?
Yes, with an approved juvenile visa and a pending Form I-485, you may apply for a work permit using Form I-765. Form I-765. However, if you need to leave the country temporarily, please see Form I-131. Form I-131 to obtain a travel document. Please note that if you leave without re-entry clearance, it will be considered as abandonment of your application.
Can I Include Family Members In My Juvenile Visa Application?
No, it is not possible to file an application derived from a juvenile status. However, once your juvenile visa is approved and USCIS grants you a green card, you may petition for certain family members through family-based immigration.
Also note that a Green Card based on an approved juvenile visa does not allow you to give any immigration benefits to your natural or adoptive parents, even if there was no abuse or neglect.
What can I do if my youth visa is rejected?
If your application for juvenile status is denied by USCIS, you may file Form I-290B to request reconsideration, reopen or renew your case before the immigration court, following the instructions detailed in the denial notice.
Approved Juvenile Visa: Legal Help to Continue the Process
As we have seen, an approved youth visa can be the first step towards permanent residency. However, this process is extremely complex and can be overwhelming for any young migrant to gather documentation and face immigration authorities.
But having an immigration attorney to guide you can make all the difference, increasing your chances of success. Don’t let the ups and downs of the immigration system discourage you. At Zava Immigration Law Group our professionals are here to help you. Contact us today and take the first step towards your green card.
Sources
USCIS – Special Immigrant Juvenile Special Immigrants
USCIS – Green Card Based on SIJS Classification
USCIS – Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status
Other resources
Immigrant Juvenile Status: What Is It About?
SIJS: Complete Guide to Eligibility Criteria and Eligibility
