How does one apply for a visa for a special immigrant juvenile?

Applying for a visa for a special immigrant juvenile (SIJ) involves meeting eligibility requirements and following specific steps:

Eligibility Requirements for SIJ Visa:

To be eligible for an SIJ visa, the applicant must be under 21 years old, unmarried, have a court order declaring them a dependent of the state or legally abandoned due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and it must be determined that it is not in their best interest to return to their home country.

Steps to Apply for SIJ Visa:

1. Get a court order: Obtain a court order from a state juvenile court declaring the child's dependency on the court due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
2. File Form I-360: The guardian or legal representative must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, with the USCIS to establish the child's eligibility for SIJ status.
3. Apply for a visa: Once the Form I-360 is approved, the child can apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

It is essential to follow these steps carefully and provide all necessary documentation to successfully apply for a visa for a special immigrant juvenile.