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USCIS Ends Automatic Deferred Action for SIJ Recipients
Effective June 6, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has revised its policy to eliminate the automatic consideration of deferred action for individuals granted Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification who cannot adjust status due to visa unavailability.
This policy reverses the 2022 guidance that allowed SIJ recipients to be considered for deferred action and corresponding employment authorization while awaiting an available visa. USCIS now states that an approved SIJ petition and a state court’s best interest findings are not, by themselves, sufficient grounds to justify deferred action under current law.
Key highlights:
- No new deferred action will be granted solely based on SIJ status and visa backlog.
- Employment authorization under (c)(14) will no longer be issued for this category.
- Existing deferred action and EADs will generally remain valid through their current expiration dates but may be terminated at USCIS’s discretion.
If you or a loved one may be affected by this policy change, it’s more important than ever to have knowledgeable legal guidance. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help you understand your options, protect your rights, and plan your next steps.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate these changes with confidence.