Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law (COIL) Practice Exam

After Angelica's I-360 SIJS petition approval, what happens if she marries?

1. Her SIJS will be permanently revoked

2. Her SIJS remains valid regardless of marriage

3. She must reapply for SIJS after marriage

4. Marriage invalidates her previous status

The correct answer is: Her SIJS remains valid regardless of marriage

The correct response is that Angelica's Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) remains valid regardless of marriage. This understanding is rooted in the specific provisions governing SIJS and its eligibility criteria, which focus primarily on the applicant's status as a juvenile and their past circumstances, rather than their marital status. Once SIJS is granted, the individual has established their eligibility based on their circumstances as an abused, neglected, or abandoned child, which forms the crux of their petition. Marriage does not automatically affect SIJS approval because the purpose of this status is to protect vulnerable youth who have faced significant adversity. Therefore, even if Angelica marries after her I-360 petition is approved, her status remains intact and she does not need to worry about the implications of her marital status on her SIJS. This scenario emphasizes the fact that SIJS is designed to provide stability and security to minors escaping difficult situations, ensuring that their safety and legal status are maintained. Understanding how marriage interacts with SIJS helps clarify the broader principles of immigration law that protect young individuals in precarious situations.