What is the definition of a child in immigration law?

In the state of Virginia, the legal definition of a child in immigration law is an individual who is younger than 18 years of age, who is not married, and who has not been legally emancipated. This definition applies to both United States citizens and non-citizens. The age of 18 may be different in other states, however, so individuals should be aware of their particular state’s specific rules and regulations. In certain cases, an individual under the age of 18 may be considered a child in immigration law despite not meeting the legal definition outlined above. This could occur if an individual is particularly vulnerable or needy, and the courts determine that it would be inappropriate to treat them as an adult. If the case involves a minor who is likely to be harmed if returned to their home country, the court may use their discretion to classify them as a child in immigration law. For individuals over the age of 18, they are usually considered adults in immigration law and will be subject to the same regulations as any other adult. However, those individuals may still be able to apply for special protection, such as asylum. Therefore, all individuals represented in immigration law, regardless of age, should seek legal advice to ensure they understand their rights and obligations under the law.

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En ley de inmigración, un niño se define como una persona que tiene menos de 18 años de edad. Esta definición se aplica tanto a niños nacidos dentro de los Estados Unidos como a niños nacidos fuera de los Estados Unidos, según la Ley de Migración y Nacionalidad de los EE. UU. A los fines de la aplicación de la ley de inmigración de Virginia, un menor de edad se define como una persona menor de 18 años. En la mayoría de los estados, un niño menor de 18 años se considera un menor. Los padres tienen el deber de cuidar de sus hijos hasta que cumplen 18 años de edad y son completamente responsables de su bienestar. Esto significa que los padres son responsables de proveer comida, alojamiento, atención médica y educación para sus hijos. En la ley de inmigración, un niño es una persona menor de 18 años, independientemente de su lugar de nacimiento o estatus migratorio. La ley de inmigración federal establece normas específicas para los casos de inmigración de menores de edad. Esto incluye el proceso de petición de un menor no acompañado (UMARA) que solicita un ajuste legal para un niño sin compañía de un adulto. Además, la ley de inmigración federal también protege a los niños contra la explotación y la deportación.

Related FAQs

Is a child eligible to apply for Humanitarian Parole if they are facing an emergency situation in their home country?
Are there any special considerations for a child to be granted refugee status?
Is a child eligible to apply for a T visa if they are victims of trafficking?
Are there certain criteria for a child to qualify for a visa?
Is there a difference between a child's immigrant visa and a child's nonimmigrant visa?
Are there any special rules for a child to become a U.S. citizen through their parent’s acquisition of a green card?
Are there any special criteria for a child to be granted asylum?
Is a child eligible for the special immigrant juvenile status if they have been abused, neglected or abandoned?
Can a child apply for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)?
Are there any special considerations for a child to obtain a work permit?

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