How Long Does the 601A Waiver Take? Get the Latest Timeline


Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.
If you’re wondering about the timeline for the I-601A waiver (also known as the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver), you’re not alone.
Many people who are navigating the immigration process find themselves asking, “How long does it take?”
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the processing time for the I-601A waiver and give you tips on how to avoid unnecessary delays. So, let’s dive in and take a look at the timeline, key steps, and important factors that affect the I-601A waiver processing time.
What Is the I-601A Waiver?
The I-601A waiver is officially known as the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver. It allows certain immigrants who are in the U.S. without legal status to apply for a waiver of the unlawful presence bar before leaving the country for their immigrant visa interview.
This is important because, without the waiver, many immigrants who have been unlawfully present in the U.S. would face a 3- or 10-year ban from re-entering the country. The I-601A waiver helps avoid this bar by getting the waiver approved before the immigrant departs for their visa interview abroad.
This waiver is typically used by individuals who have U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) family members, such as a spouse or parent, who would face extreme hardship if the immigrant is barred from returning to the U.S.

How Long Does the I-601A Waiver Process Take?
The processing time for the I-601A waiver can vary depending on several factors, including USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) workload, application completeness, and the complexity of your case.
On average, as of 2024, the I-601A waiver processing time takes around 43.5 months from the time the application is submitted until a final decision is made.
This timeline includes the following stages:
- Form I-601A Submission: Once you submit your waiver application, USCIS will issue a receipt notice to confirm they have received your application. This typically happens within 2-3 weeks of submission.
- Biometrics Appointment: After receiving your receipt notice, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints and photograph. This generally occurs within 30-60 days after submission.
- USCIS Review and Decision: Once your biometrics are collected, USCIS will review your waiver application. This review process can take months to years, depending on the complexity of the case and current USCIS processing times.
- Final Decision: After USCIS completes its review, they will issue a decision. If approved, the waiver allows you to proceed with your immigrant visa interview abroad.
Factors That Impact the I-601A Waiver Processing Time
Several factors can influence the overall processing time for the I-601A waiver. These factors include:
- Completeness of the Application: Submitting a complete and accurate waiver application is crucial. If you miss any required documents or make errors in the application, it can delay the process. Double-check all forms and supporting documents before submission to avoid delays.
- USCIS Backlog: Processing times at USCIS can fluctuate based on their workload. High volumes of applications, staffing shortages, or changes in immigration policy can all contribute to delays.
- Biometrics Scheduling: The timing of your biometrics appointment can impact how quickly your application moves forward. Attending this appointment as scheduled is essential for staying on track.
- Requests for Evidence (RFEs): If USCIS requires additional information to make a decision, they will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). This can extend the processing time significantly, as it may take several weeks or even months to gather the necessary documents and submit them to USCIS.
- Delays in Visa Processing: After your I-601A waiver is approved, the timeline for your immigrant visa interview at a U.S. consulate abroad can also vary based on the availability of appointments and processing backlogs at the consulate.
Tips to Minimize Delays in the I-601A Waiver Process
Although you can’t control every aspect of the I-601A waiver processing time, there are steps you can take to help ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible:
- Submit a Complete Application: Make sure you include all required forms and supporting documents. Missing or incomplete information can result in delays or denial.
- Respond Promptly to RFEs: If you receive a Request for Evidence, respond as quickly as possible with the requested documentation. The sooner you provide the additional information, the faster USCIS can process your application.
- Keep Your Address Up-to-Date: Always ensure that USCIS has your current address so that you receive all notices and correspondence without delay.
- Consult an Immigration Lawyer: A qualified immigration lawyer can help you prepare a strong and complete waiver application, reducing the chances of mistakes and delays. They can also guide you through any unexpected issues that may arise.
How USCIS Tracks Your I-601A Application
Once you submit your I-601A waiver, USCIS will issue a receipt notice confirming that your application has been received.
This receipt notice will include a 13-character receipt number that allows you to track the status of your application online.
To check your case status, follow these steps:
- Visit the USCIS Case Status Page: Go to the USCIS Case Status Online page.
- Enter Your Receipt Number: Input your receipt number to get the latest updates on your waiver application.
- Monitor the Status: Regularly check the status of your application, and be on the lookout for any Requests for Evidence (RFE) or other notices from USCIS.
Biometrics Appointment: A Key Step in the I-601A Waiver Process
After submitting your waiver application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This is a critical step because it allows USCIS to run background checks and confirm your identity.
Here’s what to expect:
- You’ll receive a notice with the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment.
- The appointment typically takes 15-30 minutes.
- After the appointment, USCIS will continue processing your waiver.
It’s important to attend this appointment. Missing it can result in delays or even denial of your waiver application.
What Happens After Your I-601A Waiver Is Approved?
Once USCIS approves your I-601A waiver, you’ll need to schedule an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country. The approval of the provisional waiver means that USCIS has agreed to waive your unlawful presence bar, but you still need to complete the visa interview abroad to finalize your immigration process.
Here’s what happens next:
- Visa Interview Appointment: The U.S. consulate will schedule your immigrant visa interview, usually within 2-3 months of receiving your approved waiver. During this interview, a consular officer will review your case and determine your eligibility for an immigrant visa.
- Decision on Visa: If the consular officer determines that you are eligible for the visa, you will receive an immigrant visa, which allows you to re-enter the U.S. as a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder).
Common Reasons for I-601A Waiver Delays
While most I-601A waiver applications are processed without issue, there are a few common reasons why delays may occur:
- Incomplete Application: If you fail to provide all required information or documentation, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), which can extend the processing time significantly.
- Biometrics Appointment Issues: Missing or rescheduling your biometrics appointment can lead to delays in the processing of your application.
- Consular Processing Delays: After your waiver is approved, the availability of appointments at U.S. consulates or embassies can vary, which may delay your immigrant visa interview.
- Additional Grounds of Inadmissibility: If the consular officer determines during your visa interview that there are other grounds of inadmissibility, such as criminal history or fraud, you may need to file additional waivers, which can delay the process.

What If Your I-601A Waiver Is Denied?
If your I-601A waiver is denied, you do have options:
- File a New Waiver: You can file a new I-601A waiver application if your initial one is denied. However, you’ll need to address the reasons for the denial and provide additional evidence to support your case.
- Submit a Traditional Waiver: Alternatively, you can file a Form I-601 (the traditional waiver) after attending your immigrant visa interview abroad. This process may take longer, but it is an option if your provisional waiver is denied.
- Consult an Immigration Lawyer: An experienced immigration attorney can help you understand the reasons for the denial and advise you on the best course of action moving forward.
Can You Expedite the I-601A Waiver Processing Time?
Unfortunately, USCIS does not offer premium processing for the I-601A waiver. However, in certain circumstances, you may request expedited processing if you can demonstrate that extreme hardship or other urgent factors justify faster processing.
It’s important to note that expedited processing is granted only in rare cases, so be sure to consult with an immigration lawyer if you believe your case qualifies for an expedited review.
Conclusion
The I-601A waiver is an essential tool for many immigrants seeking to resolve their unlawful presence in the U.S. without facing a long-term bar from re-entering the country. While the processing time can be lengthy—averaging 43.5 months—there are steps you can take to avoid unnecessary delays. Ensuring that your waiver application is complete, attending all scheduled appointments, and responding promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE) are key factors in speeding up the process.
If you need assistance with the I-601A waiver or want to ensure your application is as strong as possible, consulting an immigration lawyer can make a significant difference.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take for the I-601A Waiver to Be Approved?
On average, it takes around 43.5 months for USCIS to process and approve the I-601A waiver.
Can I Expedite the I-601A Waiver Process?
No, premium processing is not available for the I-601A waiver, but you may request expedited processing in rare cases.
What Happens After the I-601A Waiver Is Approved?
Once the I-601A waiver is approved, you’ll schedule an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad. Approval of the waiver does not guarantee a visa.
How Can I Check My I-601A Waiver Application Status?
You can check the status of your I-601A waiver by visiting the USCIS Case Status Online page and entering your receipt number.
What Should I Do If My I-601A Waiver Is Denied?
If your I-601A waiver is denied, you can file a new waiver or submit a traditional Form I-601 after your immigrant visa interview. Consulting with an immigration lawyer is highly recommended.