According to the INA, what is the age requirement for a child regarding immigration purposes?

The correct response indicates that, for immigration purposes under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), a child is defined as someone who is under 21 and unmarried. This age definition is crucial because it determines eligibility for various immigration benefits, including family-based petitions and asylum applications.

By designating individuals under the age of 21 and unmarried as children, the law aims to protect younger, dependent individuals who may be at risk if left without immigration status or legal guardians. These provisions are in place to address the special circumstances of minors who may require additional support and protection in navigating the immigration system.

In contrast, other age and marital status combinations do not align with the legal definition set forth in the INA. For instance, being under 18 and unmarried refers to a more limited age category and does not encompass all potential applicants who may qualify as children under immigration law. Similarly, the definitions that include married individuals or those under 16 do not meet the specific legal criteria that have been established. Therefore, the understanding that an unmarried child is one who is under 21 is essential for correctly navigating immigration regulations and policies.