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How to Legally Return to the United States After Deportation

Before understanding how to get back to the United States after deportation, it is important to know what deportation entails. This guide will actively help you navigate the complexities, uncover legal pathways for return, outline required steps, and identify influential factors, empowering you to make informed decisions and take control of your situation.

The Basics of Deportation and Inadmissibility

The rules for individuals that are not citizens of the U.S.

Authorities actively prohibit individuals deported to another country from returning at will, with the specific restrictions on their re-entry dependent on the reason for their deportation and the presence of a criminal history, which determines the extent of their inadmissibility. This time they can’t come back could be five to twenty years be lifetime or even be eternity.

Reentering the U.S. Illegally: Risks and Consequences

It is extremely dangerous to try to come back to the U. S. again, once a removal order has been issued. This action may lead to cancellation of the removal of the order and immediate deportation once the authority gets a clue. Moreover, those who are involved with reentry may also incur federal criminal charges which add to their problem.

Seeking Legal Reentry

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been caught after an illegal reentry, there are still options for seeking legal reentry to the United States. The process involves applying for permission to return, provided you have separate grounds for requesting U.S. entry.

The Role of Form I-212

To initiate the process of legal reentry, one must submit Form I-212, also known as “Permission to Reapply For Admission Into the United States After Deportation or Removal.” This waiver request serves as a vital tool to request that immigration authorities overlook your prior removal and grant you a second chance at entry.

Eligibility for Form I-212

Form I-212 assesses eligibility on a case-by-case basis, evaluating individual circumstances rather than adhering to specific standards or requirements like other immigration processes. Some of the factors taken into consideration include:

  • The reason for your deportation
  • The time since your removal
  • Your duration of residence in the U.S.
  • Your criminal history, if any
  • Your commitment to obeying the law
  • Evidence of rehabilitation, if applicable
  • Family ties and obligations
  • Any additional grounds for inadmissibility

Your contributions to the U.S. economy and society, if applying for a work visa

When submitting Form I-212, it’s crucial to provide a well-documented statement that addresses these factors, demonstrating your eligibility and your commitment to being a productive and law-abiding member of society.

Additional Waivers: I-601 and I-192

While Form I-212 addresses the inadmissibility resulting from your removal order, it may not be the sole waiver needed in your situation. If your deportation involved separate grounds of inadmissibility, you might also need to apply for either an I-601 or I-192 waiver, depending on your visa category.

  • The I-601 waiver is for those applying for an immigrant visa to live permanently in the United States.
  • The I-192 waiver is for those seeking a nonimmigrant visa to stay temporarily in the United States.

A Complex Process Requiring Professional Assistance

Navigating the intricate path to legal reentry to the United States can be daunting. Given the complexity of Form I-212 and potential additional waivers, seeking professional guidance from an immigration attorney is highly advisable. An experienced attorney can help you compile the necessary documentation, craft a compelling statement, and navigate the intricate web of immigration regulations.

In conclusion, re-entering the United States after deportation is a multifaceted process with various legal aspects to consider. It’s essential to approach it with a clear understanding of your options, eligibility, and the potential consequences of illegal reentry. By following the proper legal procedures and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can increase your chances of successfully returning to the U.S. and re-establishing your life in this diverse and dynamic nation.

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