For many young people considering Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), one of the biggest worries is whether their parents will be notified — especially if they have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents.
The short answer is no, your parents are not automatically notified by immigration authorities when you apply for SIJS. However, depending on your situation and the family court process, one or both parents may need to be involved or given notice at certain steps.
At Whitaker Legal, our immigration lawyers help young immigrants understand what to expect at every stage of the SIJS process, ensuring their safety and privacy are protected.
SIJS Has Two Parts — and Different Rules for Each
Applying for SIJS involves two separate parts:
- The State Family or Juvenile Court Process
- The Immigration Process with USCIS (Form I-360)
Each part has different requirements about notice and who must be informed.
- The Family or Juvenile Court Process
Before you can apply for SIJS with immigration authorities, you must first get a juvenile or family court order that includes findings about your family situation — such as abuse, neglect, or abandonment by one or both parents.
In most cases, the court requires notice to both parents because they have legal rights that must be addressed in the court proceeding. This doesn’t mean they’ll automatically appear or contest your case, but they usually have the right to be notified that the court is making decisions about custody, guardianship, or similar matters.
However, there are exceptions.
- If a parent cannot be located, your attorney can ask the court to approve alternative notice, such as publication or waiver of service.
- If contacting a parent would be unsafe, your attorney can request that the court handle the case in a way that protects your safety and privacy.
An experienced attorney can guide you on how to proceed safely in your situation.
- The Immigration (USCIS) Process
Once you have your court order, your attorney will file a Form I-360 petition for SIJS with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
At this stage, USCIS does not notify your parents about your application. The immigration process is confidential — only you (and your attorney) will receive correspondence or decisions related to your case.
Your Safety Comes First
The SIJS program exists to protect young people who have suffered harm or abandonment by their parents. Courts and immigration officials understand the sensitivity of these cases and take confidentiality seriously.
If you are afraid that notifying one or both parents could put you in danger, talk to your attorney right away. There are legal procedures to help you move forward without risking your safety.
Why Legal Guidance Is Essential
Every family situation is different, and the rules about notifying parents can vary depending on the state, the court, and your particular facts. A skilled SIJS attorney will know how to:
- File your court case safely and appropriately;
- Request waivers or alternative notice if a parent can’t be found or poses a danger;
- Keep your immigration filings confidential.
At Whitaker Legal, we have extensive experience helping young immigrants in Maryland and across the U.S. pursue SIJS safely and successfully.
Talk to a Maryland SIJS Attorney Confidentially
If you’re considering applying for SIJS and are worried about your parents finding out, you’re not alone — and you have options.
Call Whitaker Legal at 410-207-9272 or visit our website to schedule a private consultation with Attorney Nicole M. Whitaker. We’ll help you understand your rights and guide you safely through every step of your SIJS case.
