Did you know that the average processing time for an I-601 waiver application ranges between 4 to 6 months?
While it’s exciting to get the process started, it’s essential to understand the timeline and what it involves.
Gaining approval of your waiver doesn’t automatically provide you with legal immigration status nor protection from removal. If your waiver is denied, don’t fret, you can still file a new application.
Unfortunately, no premium processing is offered for this, but expedited adjudication can be requested.
This guide will help you understand the I-601 processing time in detail.
Understanding the I-601 Processing Time
To understand the I-601 processing time, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with your receipt notice and keep track of estimated processing times for your specific case. This crucial information on your notice, such as the receipt number and USCIS office processing your case, guides you in monitoring the progression of your waiver application accurately.
| Category | Office | 80% of cases are completed within |
|---|---|---|
| Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility | Nebraska Service Center | 24.5 Months |
Processing times vary, so it’s essential to keep abreast of updates. For instance, the provisional unlawful presence waiver, or I-601A, generally takes 4 to 6 months to process. However, this doesn’t grant you legal immigration status or protection from removal. If your waiver application is denied, you can’t appeal or reopen it. Instead, you have the option to file a new application, notifying the Department of State accordingly.
Take note that premium processing isn’t available for the I-601A waiver. However, you can request expedited adjudication as per USCIS guidance.
In all, understanding the nuances of case processing, and maintaining regular contact with USCIS, ensures you stay informed and prepared throughout the waiver application process.
Required Documents for I-601 Application
After understanding the i-601 processing time, you’ll now need to gather the necessary documents to proceed with your application. Preparing the required documents for i-601 application ensures a smoother USCIS processing experience.
First, you’ll need to complete Form I-601, the application for waiver of inadmissibility. This form is used to apply for a waiver if you’ve been found ineligible to enter or adjust status in the U.S. for specific grounds of inadmissibility. Be meticulous in providing evidence and details to support your waiver application.
For applicants in the U.S. with immediate U.S. citizen or green card family members who entered the country illegally, you’ll need to prepare Form I-601A. Remember, you must be in the U.S. at the time of filing.
Aside from the forms, you should also gather supporting documents. These could include affidavits, police clearance, medical records, or other documents that can substantiate your claim of inadmissibility.
Take note that USCIS doesn’t refund filing fees for a withdrawn I-601A application. Therefore, ensure all your documents are complete and accurately filled out before submission to avoid unnecessary expenses and delays.
Steps to Apply for I-601 Waiver
Now that you’ve gathered all your necessary documents, let’s dive into the steps you need to take to apply for an I-601 waiver.
Start by completing the I-601 form, ensuring you’ve provided accurate information and addressed the grounds of inadmissibility. Remember to include any supporting documents that demonstrate the extreme hardship your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative would face if you were denied admission.
Next, calculate your filing fees. The I-601 waiver application costs $930. Make sure to pay this fee to avoid any delays in waiver processing.
Then, submit your waiver application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can do this either online or by mail. Expect the I-601 processing time to range from 4 to 6 months.
Throughout this process, regularly check for updates on your case status through the USCIS website. If your application is approved, you’ll be scheduled for an immigration visa interview within 2 to 3 months.
Remember, the approval of your waiver doesn’t grant legal immigration status. However, it’s a critical step in your journey to adjust your status. If denied, you can file a new application.
Keep these steps in mind as you navigate the I-601 waiver application process.
Possible Outcomes of I-601 Application
When you submit your I-601 waiver application, you’ll face one of three possible outcomes: approval, denial, or a request for further evidence. If your application is approved, you’ve successfully obtained a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility, allowing you to proceed with your immigration process. Remember, the i-601 processing time typically ranges from 4 to 6 months.
However, if your application is denied, it’s a setback but not necessarily the end of your journey. While there’s no option to appeal or reopen a denied waiver, you can file a new application. The denial doesn’t guarantee you can’t apply again.
In some cases, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) might request further evidence to support your application. This could prolong the i-601 processing time. Still, it offers an opportunity to strengthen your case.
Regardless of the possible outcomes of the i-601 application, it’s crucial to understand that a waiver approval doesn’t guarantee automatic visa issuance. It’s only a step towards achieving your immigration goal. Be prepared, be patient, and remember each step takes you closer to your desired outcome.
Expedited Adjudication Process
The expedited adjudication process is an option you can consider to potentially speed up your I-601A waiver application’s processing time. This process aims to lessen the historical processing times that have typically ranged from four to six months. With this option, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) endeavors to process applications within a shorter timeframe, offering significant immigration benefits to applicants.
You can request for an expedited adjudication of your application, although it’s important to note that this isn’t available via premium processing. If your request is approved, the redesigned processing times webpage of the USCIS will provide an average processing time that reflects this expedited service.
Remember, approval of your waiver doesn’t grant legal immigration status or protection from removal. In case of a denial, there’s no option for appeal or reopening. However, you can file a new application, notifying the Department of State accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take for I-601 to Be Approved?
You’re wondering about the I-601 approval time. Typically, it takes 4-6 months to process an I-601A waiver. After approval, expect an immigrant visa interview in 2-3 months. However, approval doesn’t grant legal immigration status.
How Do I Expedite My I-601 Waiver?
You can expedite your I-601 waiver by contacting USCIS and submitting a formal expedite request. Provide evidence of extreme hardship to the U.S. citizen involved, and support your request with compelling documentation demonstrating urgent circumstances.
What Percentage of I-601a Waivers Are Approved?
You’re asking about the approval rate for I-601A waivers. Unfortunately, USCIS doesn’t publish specific percentages. It’s crucial to provide thorough documentation to increase your chances of approval. Consult an immigration attorney for tailored advice.
How Do You Prove Extreme Hardship for I-601?
To prove extreme hardship for an I-601, you’ll need to provide evidence showing your U.S. citizen or green card spouse or parent would suffer severely if you were denied entry or removed.
