Inadmissibility and Waivers
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.
Grounds of Inadmissibility
Grounds of Inadmissibility
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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The immigration laws list numerous crimes, or types of crimes, that make the person ineligible for a visa or U.S. residence.
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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?
Inadmissibility Based on "Public Charge" Classification
Inadmissibility Based on "Public Charge" Classification
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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.
Waivers of Inadmissibility: Eligibility and Application Process
MoreWaivers of Inadmissibility: Eligibility and Application Process
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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.
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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.