If you or a loved one is facing deportation or inadmissibility to the United States, you may have heard of two types of waivers that could potentially help your case: the I-601 waiver and the I-212 waiver. While both waivers serve a similar purpose, there are key differences between the two that can greatly affect the outcome of your immigration case. In this article, we will provide a comparative analysis of the I-601 and I-212 waivers to help you better understand which one may be the best option for your specific situation.

What are the I-601 and I-212 waivers?

Before we delve into the differences between the two waivers, let’s first define what they are. Both the I-601 and I-212 waivers are forms of relief that allow individuals who are deemed inadmissible to the United States to enter or remain in the country. Inadmissibility can be caused by a variety of factors, such as criminal convictions, immigration violations, or health-related issues.

The I-601 waiver

The I-601 waiver, also known as the Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, is a form that is used to waive certain grounds of inadmissibility under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This waiver is typically used by individuals who are applying for an immigrant visa, adjustment of status, or certain nonimmigrant visas.

The I-212 waiver

The I-212 waiver, also known as the Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the United States After Deportation or Removal, is a form that is used to waive certain grounds of inadmissibility under the INA. This waiver is typically used by individuals who have been previously deported or removed from the United States and are seeking to re-enter the country.

Key Differences between the I-601 and I-212 waivers

Now that we have a basic understanding of what the I-601 and I-212 waivers are, let’s take a closer look at the key differences between the two.

Eligibility requirements

One of the main differences between the I-601 and I-212 waivers is their eligibility requirements. In order to be eligible for an I-601 waiver, the applicant must have a qualifying relative who would suffer extreme hardship if the applicant is not allowed to enter or remain in the United States. Qualifying relatives can include a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child. On the other hand, the I-212 waiver does not require the applicant to have a qualifying relative. However, the applicant must demonstrate that their re-entry into the United States would not be contrary to the country’s public interest.

Filing location

Another key difference between the two waivers is their filing location. The I-601 waiver must be filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) either at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad or at a USCIS office in the United States. On the other hand, the I-212 waiver must be filed with the USCIS office that has jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence.

Processing time

The processing time for the I-601 and I-212 waivers can also differ significantly. The I-601 waiver can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year to be processed, while the I-212 waiver typically takes around 4-6 months. However, processing times can vary depending on the individual case and the workload of the USCIS office.

Effect on future immigration applications

Perhaps one of the most important differences between the I-601 and I-212 waivers is their impact on future immigration applications. If an individual is granted an I-601 waiver, they will be considered admissible to the United States and will not face any additional barriers in future immigration applications. On the other hand, if an individual is granted an I-212 waiver, they will still be considered inadmissible and will need to apply for a waiver in any future immigration applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the I-601 and I-212 waivers serve a similar purpose of allowing individuals to enter or remain in the United States despite being deemed inadmissible. However, the key differences between the two waivers, such as eligibility requirements, filing location, processing time, and impact on future immigration applications, can greatly affect the outcome of an individual’s case. It is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to determine which waiver is the best option for your specific situation.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply for both the I-601 and I-212 waivers at the same time? A: Yes, it is possible to apply for both waivers simultaneously, but it is important to carefully consider the eligibility requirements and potential outcomes of each before doing so. Q: Can I appeal a denial of my I-601 or I-212 waiver? A: Yes, you can file an appeal or a motion to reopen or reconsider a denial of your waiver application. However, it is important to seek the guidance of an immigration attorney to ensure the best chance of success. Q: Can I apply for a waiver if I have already been granted a green card? A: No, if you have already been granted a green card, you are no longer considered inadmissible and do not need to apply for a waiver.