Finding out you can’t travel to the U.S. is a tough pill to swallow. Imagine a U.S. consular officer telling you you’re not allowed to enter the country because your application didn’t make the cut. Although they usually base this decision on objective reasons, known as grounds of inadmissibility, it can still feel disheartening.
But don’t fret! Even in this situation, you still have options to visit the U.S. The first step is understanding why they might consider you inadmissible.
Grounds for inadmissibility
Wondering why the U.S. might deny you entry? Here are the common reasons:
- Health-related issues: Certain health conditions can pose a public health risk.
- Criminal activity: Any criminal conviction, from minor to major.
- National security concerns: Any sign that you might pose a security risk.
- Public charge: The possibility that you might need government assistance.
- Previous deportations or removals: The U.S. has deported or removed you in the past.
These reasons could potentially restrict your ability to visit the U.S. However, even with these challenges, there’s still a chance to address this situation by applying for a waiver of inadmissibility.
How a waiver can help
Now, you might be wondering, is there a way around this? Can I still visit the U.S.? The answer is yes. A waiver is a formal request you make to the U.S. government asking them to let you in despite these issues.
You apply for a waiver by submitting forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You’d typically fill out Form I-601, the Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility.
For deportations, you might also need to submit Form I-212, an Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the United States After Deportation or Removal.
The process can get complex
The process might seem tricky, but it’s worth it if it means you can visit the U.S. Remember, USCIS evaluates each application individually, so there’s no guarantee of success. Even if they deem you inadmissible, there’s still a chance you can visit the U.S. Understanding why you can’t re-enter and how to apply for a waiver is the first step toward making your visit to the U.S. happen.
Consider consulting with an attorney to guide you based on your specific situation.
