Pathways for Undocumented Children Brought to the US
Children brought to the US without papers face significant immigration challenges, but there are more pathways available to them than many people realize — depending on age, family situation, and the circumstances of their entry. No two situations are the same, and consulting an attorney is essential.
Reviewed by Gracie Johnson, Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law, State Bar of California, California State Bar #276536
Last reviewed: July 2, 2026
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is the most widely known option for those who were brought to the US as children before June 15, 2007. DACA provides work authorization and deferred action but not a path to a green card. In 2026, DACA remains under litigation and is available only to prior recipients renewing. No new initial applications are being approved.
Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is a pathway for children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents and for whom it is not in the child's best interest to return to their home country. SIJS requires a family court finding (state court order) and then a USCIS petition (Form I-360). If approved, it leads to a green card. This pathway is for unmarried children under 21.
If you were brought to the US as a child and now have a qualifying family member (a US citizen or LPR parent or spouse) who can petition for you, that pathway may exist regardless of how you entered. Your entry history will determine whether you can adjust inside the US or need to use the consular process with a waiver.
No pathway is automatic. An attorney must evaluate your age, entry history, criminal record (if any), and family relationships to identify what is available. Call Gracie Johnson Law at (310) 554-4630.
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Also available in Spanish: Caminos para Niños Indocumentados Traídos a los EE. UU.