I-601 Waiver (Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility)
The I-601 is a broad waiver used to request forgiveness for several grounds of inadmissibility, typically by demonstrating that the denial of admission would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent.
Common Grounds Addressed by the I-601
- Fraud or misrepresentation: Lying or providing false information on previous visa or immigration applications.
- Certain criminal grounds: Specific convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs) or a single offense of simple possession of a small amount of marijuana.
- Health-related grounds: Certain communicable diseases or missing required vaccinations.
- Unlawful presence: This is covered by the I-601 when filing abroad, typically after a consular officer has made a formal finding of inadmissibility.
I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver
The I-601A is a distinct, specialized waiver explicitly designed only to address the ground of unlawful presence.
- Key advantage: It allows certain applicants who are physically present in the U.S. to file and have their unlawful presence waiver approved before departing for their immigrant visa interview abroad. This minimizes the period of family separation.
- Limitation: It does not cover any other ground of inadmissibility, such as criminal history or fraud. If the consular officer finds any other reason for inadmissibility, the I-601A approval is nullified, and the applicant must then file the complete I-601 from abroad.
I-212 Waiver (Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission)
If an individual has been previously deported, removed, or excluded from the U.S., they are banned from returning for a period (five, 10, or 20 years). The I-601 does not waive this bar.
- Required action: The I-212 Waiver must be filed to request permission to reapply for admission before the statutory ban period has expired. It is often filed concurrently with an I-601.
Why Proper Guidance Is Crucial
Selecting and preparing the correct waiver is essential. Filing the wrong form or failing to address all grounds of inadmissibility will lead to rejection, wasted time, high costs, and prolonged separation from your family. We identify and address every potential ground of inadmissibility with the appropriate, evidence-based application.
Our team can help:
- Evaluate eligibility. We assess your unique circumstances and determine whether a 601 waiver is a viable solution.
- Gather evidence. Strong applications require detailed documentation. We help you collect supporting evidence, including hardship letters, financial records, and proof of family ties.
- Prepare persuasive applications. We craft applications that clearly demonstrate why granting a waiver is warranted, emphasizing the hardship to U.S. citizen or permanent resident family members.
- Represent you before immigration authorities. Our firm advocates on your behalf during USCIS interviews, hearings, and requests for additional evidence.
With over 19 years of experience handling thousands of immigration cases nationwide, we bring knowledge, cultural understanding, and a personal touch to each case. We don’t just process forms; we fight for your family, your future, and your rights.
Call (689) 220-3998 or reach us online to book your consultation with an Orlando 601A waiver attorney today.
