The United States updated the criteria for minors abandoned or abused by their parents to apply for permanent residence, the federal agency that oversees immigration reported Monday.
In a statement, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) states that it has taken measures to “help” immigrant minors who are victims of parental abuse, neglect, abandonment or mistreatment.
“We offer them better protection to help rebuild their lives,” says USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou in the note.
What Happens If You Overstay Time in the United States on Your Tourist Visa
“These policies will provide humanitarian protection to vulnerable youth for whom a juvenile court has determined it is in their best interest to remain in the United States.”
The agency has clarified the criteria to enter the category of Special Immigrant Youth (SIJ), a status that allows minors who are in the United States to remain legally in the country if they have been victims of neglect or abuse.
As of May 6 of this year, when the new measures will come into force, minors who fall into this category and have turned 21 while their application is being processed will be protected and cannot be expelled.
What are the 10 most requested professions in the United States to work with an H-1B visa?
In addition, the USCIS has updated the regulations so that abused minors or victims of parental abuse have access to “a path to request legal permanent resident status (LPR)”.
Starting in May, the agency could grant SIJ status when the applicant can prove that a court has ruled that they should be helped for having been a victim of abuse or grievances and in no case may they be required to contact their alleged abuser. .
Since 2003, the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has been in charge of minors detained by immigration officials. As of December 31, 2021, it served 12,511, according to official figures. (I)
Source: Eluniverso
Paul is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment and general news. He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.
