Definition

Aging Out

Losing eligibility for an immigration benefit by turning 21 before a green card is issued.

Many family-based and employment-based categories require the beneficiary to be under 21. CSPA protects some children from aging out, but not all. Children in the F2A category and derivative beneficiaries are most affected.

See also

Child Status Protection Act

A law that protects certain immigrant children from "aging out" when they turn 21.
Derivative Beneficiary

A spouse or unmarried child under 21 who can immigrate with the principal beneficiary.

Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.