Undocumented immigrant youth in foster care are considered “qualified aliens” and are eligible for extended foster care as long as they meet all other eligibility criteria.


It is important that undocumented immigrant foster youth apply for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) prior to turning 21. SIJS is a legal process that allows individuals under age 21, who cannot be reunited with a parent due to abuse, neglect or abandonment, to apply for a green card and remain in the United States legally. Learn more about the SIJS application process.


To get started, the youth should contact their social worker and attorney. Additional information about SIJS can be found at the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.