Understanding the I-212 Application for Reentry After Removal
At the law office of Robert M. Bell, P.A., we strive to provide Florida families with the legal attention they need throughout their immigration cases. If you or a family member is applying for readmission to the United States after deportation or removal, we can explain the I-212 waiver to remove reentry limitations.
Contact us today for help from an experienced immigration lawyer in Florida. Call us at Robert M. Bell, P.A., at 954-241-4209 to schedule a consultation about our immigration legal services.
Barred Entry After Removal Proceedings
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) agency processes applications for immigration benefits. After a removal or deportation, you or your family member cannot apply to reenter the U.S. for a certain period of time unless an I-212 waiver is approved.
- 5 years. If Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) removed you at a port of entry through expedited removal proceedings, you may not reapply to enter the country for five years.
- 10 years. If you did not comply with voluntary departure, received an order of deportation or removal, or left the U.S. before completing your removal proceedings, you may not reenter the U.S. for ten years.
- 20 years. If you have received two or more deportation orders, you must wait 20 years to reenter the U.S.
- Permanent. If you enter or attempt to enter the U.S. without inspection after removal or after more than one year of unlawful presence, you must wait 10 years outside of the U.S. before qualifying to file Form I-212.
What is An I-212 Waiver?
An I-212 application is submitted to allow you to reapply for admission to the U.S. with an immigrant visa before the expiration of your time bar. If USCIS approves your I-212 application, the U.S. Department of State can approve an immigrant visa.
How to Apply for an I-212 Waiver in Florida
You must complete Form I-212 and attach relevant documents to apply for the waiver. You may also require Form I-601 if you are inadmissible to the U.S. Both waivers can be filed together.
Factors Considered When Evaluating an I-212 Waiver
USCIS will consider the positive factors in your case and weigh them against the negative factors. USCIS considers these factors:
- Basis for prior removal
- Previous U.S. immigration status
- An approved immigrant or non-immigrant petition
- Hardship to relatives still legally residing in the U.S. due to absence
- Moral character
- Respect for the law
- Evidence of rehabilitation
- Familial duties and responsibilities to relatives still legally residing in the U.S.
- Need for skilled labor or other contributions in the U.S.
- Inadmissibility to the U.S.
If you need help determining whether you can file an I-212 waiver, contact our immigration lawyer in Florida at 954-241-4209.
Contact Florida Attorneys With Experience in Immigration Issues
At the law office of Robert M. Bell, P.A., we understand the United States immigration processes and provide experienced legal services to clients in the U.S. and abroad. Call us today at 954-241-4209 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with an immigration lawyer.