The legal concept of "inadmissibility" may have been clearer a decade or two ago, when it was referred to as "excludability" -- that is, a set of grounds under which a person could be excluded from the United States. Various grounds of inadmissibility may be applied when a foreign national seeks a temporary (nonimmigrant) visa, permanent residence (a green card), or some other immigration benefit. It's a big issue for many immigrants who, despite being eligible for a visa or green card in every other way, are denied because they are inadmissible on health, financial, security, criminal, or related grounds. In a few situations, however, the applicant can get around the issue by applying for a "waiver," or legal forgiveness.
Why U.S. Consulate May Deny Your Visa Due to 90-Day Rule and Fraud During Past U.S. Trips
A visa fraud “90-Day Rule” replaces the commonly used “30/60 Rule” when determining whether a non-citizen used a U.S. visa for the correct purposes.
Inadmissibility: When the U.S. Can Keep You Out
A summary of the health, security, criminal, and other grounds upon which anyone can be denied a visa or green card.
Consequences of Unlawful Presence in the U.S.—Three– and Ten-Year Time Bars
Inadmissibility based on overstays, illegal entry and residence in the U.S., and so on.
The Permanent Bar to Immigration for Certain Repeat Violators
Attempting to enter the U.S. without permission after a past deportation or one year's total stay in the U.S. results in permanent inadmissibility.
How Health Issues Can Make You Inadmissible to the U.S.
While a common cold won't stop you from being admitted to the U.S. with a visa or green card, more serious communicable diseases might, as well as disorders that might cause you to harm yourself or others.
Consequences of Overstaying a U.S. Visa or I-94
What happens if you stay in the U.S. longer than you're supposed to under the terms of your visa or I-94 entry document?
The immigration laws list numerous crimes, or types of crimes, that make the person ineligible for a visa or U.S. residence.
How Past Immigration or Criminal Fraud Might Lead to Future U.S. Visa Denial
Is a history of visa fraud a permanent stain on your immigration record?
Who May Be Found Inadmissible and Denied a Green Card for Income Reasons, as a Likely Public Charge
One of the most common barriers to getting a green card is what's called "inadmissibility," and public charge is one of the grounds for this.
Applying for a Nonimmigrant Visa (Hranka) Waiver
Applicants for nonimmigrant visas have a separate procedural route by which to apply for a waiver of various grounds of inadmissibility.
When Is a Waiver of Inadmissibility Available for a Green Card Applicant?
In some cases, a special application for legal forgiveness will overcome a bar to receiving lawful permanent residence.