What Is Special Immigrant Juvenile Status?

Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status is a form of immigration relief available to children in the United States who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents. To qualify, the child must have a juvenile court order finding that reunification with one or both parents is not viable and that it is not in the child's best interest to be returned to their home country.

After obtaining SIJ classification through an approved Form I-360, the child can file Form I-485 to adjust status to lawful permanent residence. The immigration medical examination is a required component of the I-485 application.

Medical Exam Requirements for SIJ Applicants

SIJ applicants must complete an immigration medical examination with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The exam follows age-appropriate protocols based on the child's age at the time of the examination. Younger children have different vaccination requirements and testing protocols than older adolescents.

For children under 15, the syphilis and gonorrhea testing requirements that apply to adults do not apply. TB testing protocols also vary by age — children under 2 years old are not required to undergo TB testing, while children aged 2–14 receive a TB skin test or IGRA blood test.

• Age-appropriate physical examination
• TB testing for children aged 2 and older
• Syphilis and gonorrhea testing for applicants aged 15 and older only
• Age-appropriate vaccination review and administration
• Form I-693 completed and sealed by civil surgeon

Parental Consent and Guardian Involvement

Because SIJ applicants are minors, parental or guardian consent is required for the medical examination. In SIJ cases, the child's legal guardian, foster parent, or other court-appointed representative typically provides consent for the examination.

The guardian or responsible adult should accompany the child to the civil surgeon appointment and bring all relevant documentation, including the child's vaccination records, any medical records, and identification documents. The civil surgeon will explain the examination process and answer any questions.

Finding a Pediatric-Friendly Civil Surgeon

When selecting a civil surgeon for an SIJ applicant, look for a provider with experience examining children and adolescents. ImmigrationMedicalExams.com has experience with pediatric immigration medical examinations and can accommodate SIJ applicants of all ages. We understand the sensitive circumstances of SIJ cases and provide a supportive, trauma-informed environment.