What is the Waiver of Inadmissibility for Entry Without Inspection? 

A Waiver of Inadmissibility for Entry Without Inspection (EWI) allows individuals who entered the U.S. without proper documentation or inspection to overcome their inadmissibility and pursue legal residency. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their denial of entry would cause extreme hardship to a qualifying relative, such as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent. This process often involves filing Form I-601, an immigration waiver. 

Immigrants facing admissibility challenges to their entry into the U.S. can look to the Bassey Immigration Law Center for assistance from an individual and family immigration lawyer in Florida who is sympathetic to their cause. Our knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorneys have gained admission for many individuals, even where they have previously been declared inadmissible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.  

Why Would a Waiver of Inadmissibility Be Required?  

A Waiver of Inadmissibility is required when an individual is deemed ineligible to enter or remain in the U.S. due to issues such as entry without inspection (EWI), unlawful presence triggering re-entry bars, criminal convictions, misrepresentation or fraud, health-related conditions, or prior deportation orders.  

This waiver allows applicants to overcome these barriers and proceed with immigration benefits, such as a green card or visa, by demonstrating that denying their entry would cause extreme hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member. It provides a legal pathway for individuals to resolve inadmissibility issues and secure their status in the U.S. 

What Evidence Is Required to Get a Waiver of Inadmissibility?  

To obtain a Waiver of Inadmissibility, applicants must provide compelling evidence to demonstrate eligibility, particularly the extreme hardship their qualifying relative would face if the waiver were denied.  

Commonly required evidence includes: 

• Proof of Qualifying Relationship: Documentation showing the relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption records. 

• Evidence of Extreme Hardship: To prove financial hardship, documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, or evidence of economic dependency, such as joint accounts or bills. Evidence might also include proof of disrupted education for children, such as school enrollment records or statements from educators. In addition,  reports or articles about unsafe or unstable conditions in the applicant’s home country that would affect the relative if they relocated. 

• Proof of Rehabilitation (if applicable): For individuals inadmissible due to criminal or other issues, evidence of rehabilitation, such as completion of treatment programs, letters of support, or clean criminal records. 

• Supporting Documentation: Affidavits from family members, employers, or community members attesting to the applicant’s character and the hardship the family would endure, as well as the applicant’s ties to the U.S., such as employment, property ownership, or community involvement. 

Providing detailed and organized evidence strengthens the waiver application, and working with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure all necessary documentation is included. 

What is the Processing Time for an I-601 Waiver? 

The processing time for an I-601 Waiver of Inadmissibility typically ranges from 4 to 12 months, depending on factors such as case complexity, the USCIS workload, and the completeness of the application. However, delays can occur, particularly if the waiver requires additional evidence or faces issues during review. 

If the case involves consular processing or multiple petitions, the overall immigration process (including the waiver and visa application) may extend to 1-2 years or more. It’s advisable to consult USCIS processing times or work with an immigration attorney for up-to-date and personalized timelines. 

Call the Bassey Immigration Law Center  

The lawyers at Bassey Immigration Law Center provide trusted legal advice on Immigration waivers and appeals in Florida. Every member of our team has personal experience dealing with immigration, and we are all guided by a sincere passion to help as many people as we can navigate the challenges of this emotional process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.  

About Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A.

Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A., led by attorney Aniefiok Bassey, provides comprehensive immigration services to individuals, families, and businesses in Florida and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, the firm assists clients with a wide range of immigration matters, from family reunification and green cards to business visas and deportation defense. The diverse, multilingual team is dedicated to supporting clients through the complex immigration process, with a special focus on citizenship, asylum, and LGBTQ+ immigration needs. They offer affordable initial consultations and are committed to delivering personalized, strategic guidance for achieving clients’ immigration goals.