Deportation Proceedings Waiver Granted. Learn more here. When facing the possibility of deportation proceedings, if a waiver is granted, it can mean relief and a path to stay in the U.S. The full name of an I-212 waiver is a “Reapplication for Admission After a Prior Deportation Order.” The average processing time for Form I-601A is between 8.5 and 11.5 months. The packet will instruct the applicant to set up a new interview appointment at the consulate. (I.N.A. Section 212(a)(9)(B).) Waivers in removal proceedings can provide a way to remain in the U.S. and adjust your immigration status if you face deportation. The full name of an I-212 waiver is a “Reapplication for Admission After a Prior Deportation Order.” If you are inadmissible to the United States and are seeking an immigrant visa, adjustment of status, certain nonimmigrant statuses, or certain other immigration benefits, you must file this form to seek a waiver of certain grounds of inadmissibility.

Deportation Proceedings — Waiver Granted: what it means and practical next steps
When an immigration judge or adjudicator grants a waiver in deportation proceedings (for example, a discretionary waiver of inadmissibility or a statutory waiver tied to relief), it can convert an enforcement outcome into a durable chance to remain in the United States — but it also creates follow-up tasks and deadlines that must be handled precisely. Therefore, preserve the approval notice immediately and take the steps below to turn the waiver into final relief and to avoid unintended consequences.
What the waiver usually does (short)
A waiver typically forgives or excuses a statutory bar (inadmissibility, prior removal, certain criminal grounds) so the individual can obtain relief (adjustment, cancellation, voluntary departure withdrawal, or other benefits). Grants are discretionary and may be conditioned on facts, compliance, and timely filings.
Immediate actions (first 24–72 hours)
- Secure the approval notice (copy the decision, I-212/I-601/I-601A grant pages, IJ order) and store certified copies in the file.
- Confirm the exact relief granted and any conditions or deadlines (e.g., departure date, related application deadlines).
- Check appeal windows — determine whether a stay or appeal is possible and request counsel immediately if needed.
- File any required follow-on forms (I-485, consular packet, I-212) before the stated deadlines.
- Notify sponsors/employers and update client/case records.
Tactical follow-up (within 2 weeks)
- Request certified copies of the IJ decision and any hearing transcript.
- Map collateral effects: work authorization, travel, state benefits, and criminal-record conditions.
- Obtain certified dispositions or rehabilitation documents if conditions relate to past convictions.
- If consular processing is required, begin passport and embassy coordination immediately.
Common cautions
- Do not travel until any necessary waivers or travel authorizations are secured.
- Read conditional language carefully—missing conditions may trigger enforcement.
- Preserve the record for appeal or if the government later seeks to reopen enforcement action.
How we help
We obtain certified decisions, interpret waiver scope, prepare and file follow-on petitions (I-485, I-212, consular packets), coordinate criminal-record clearances, advise on travel and EAD updates, and preserve appellate rights.

