Introduction

Do you have questions about immigration?

You are not alone!

Hundreds of young people in the New York City foster care system and guardianships need immigration assistance. This handbook should help you find out if you are one of them and how to get the assistance you need.

You will find information about:

• getting a green card,
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) for young people in foster care or guardianships, and
• who can help you get through the process of becoming “legal.”

As you are reading, if you find legal or immigration terms that you have never heard of, check the glossary in the back for help. Also keep in mind that this handbook is not legal advice, but is a resource on immigration issues that may apply to you. Most of all, this booklet should help you ask the right questions so that you can get the immigration assistance that you need.