Form I-601A
Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver
Waive the 3- or 10-year unlawful presence bar before leaving the U.S. for consular processing, minimizing separation from qualifying relatives.
Filing fee
$795
Biometrics: $85
Processing time
18–36 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Paper only
Mail to USCIS lockbox
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-601A?
Immediate relatives and certain family preference beneficiaries with an approved I-130 who are inadmissible only under unlawful presence.
Where to file
Mail to the Phoenix Lockbox.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-601A page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing when other grounds of inadmissibility exist — I-601A only covers unlawful presence
- Scheduling the consular interview before the I-601A is approved
- Weak hardship narrative focused on the applicant instead of the qualifying relative
Filing tips
- An approved I-601A is "provisional" — final inadmissibility determination happens at the consulate
- Withdraw the I-601A if any new inadmissibility ground emerges before consular processing
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-601A?
Waive the 3- or 10-year unlawful presence bar before leaving the U.S. for consular processing, minimizing separation from qualifying relatives.
Who files Form I-601A?
Immediate relatives and certain family preference beneficiaries with an approved I-130 who are inadmissible only under unlawful presence.
How much is the Form I-601A filing fee?
The current filing fee is $795, plus a $85 biometric services fee. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-601A take to process?
USCIS currently reports 18 months to 36 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-601A online?
No. Form I-601A must be filed on paper and mailed to the designated USCIS lockbox or service center. Check the form's official USCIS page for the correct mailing address.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-601A cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
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- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.