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Overview (What is I-192 used for?)

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Form I-192, the Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant, is used by individuals who are inadmissible and wish to temporarily enter the United States. This form is essential for those applying for T or U nonimmigrant status and seeking to waive their inadmissibility. It collects personal details, eligibility information, and required declarations from the applicant.

When completing Form I-192, applicants must provide accurate information and supporting documentation as specified in the instructions. The form is available for download on the USCIS website, and it is important to use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete it.

The application process includes a biometric services appointment, where applicants must confirm the accuracy of their information under penalty of perjury. Failure to do so may result in the need for a follow-up appointment.

For more detailed instructions, refer to the specific sections of the form, which guide applicants through the necessary steps and required evidence for their application.

What USCIS is really evaluating (I-192)

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USCIS evaluates several criteria for Form I-192, including the applicant's inadmissibility grounds and the supporting evidence provided. A common mismatch occurs when applicants fail to submit required documentation, such as proof of rehabilitation or official records of criminal convictions. Ensuring all evidence aligns with the application details is crucial for a successful outcome.

Context & workflow (How does I-192 fit into the case?)

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Most cases file this form together with the required evidence listed on the official form page. Verify [fees](/en/united-states/visas/fees) before filing. Check [processing times](/en/united-states/visas/processing-times) for your category. Review [requirements](/en/united-states/visas/requirements) that apply to your status.

Who uses it

Applicants or petitioners who are required to submit this form for their case.

When it is used

  • When the official checklist or instructions list this form.
  • When submitting an initial application or petition.
  • When providing updated information requested by the agency.

Evidence strategy (What evidence does USCIS expect for I-192?)

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  • Gather proof of citizenship and identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.
  • Prepare a detailed statement explaining your inadmissibility and reasons for seeking entry.
  • Collect official records of any criminal convictions and court dispositions.
  • Ensure all documents in a foreign language are translated and certified.
  • Compile evidence of rehabilitation and character reformation if applicable.
  • Include any additional documentation required for your specific inadmissibility grounds.

Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)

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Technical rejections

  • Ensure your application is signed and dated.
  • Use the correct edition of Form I-192.
  • Submit all pages of the form.

Substantive weaknesses

  • Check for inconsistencies in your application and supporting documents.
  • Provide sufficient evidence to support your claims of rehabilitation.
  • Ensure all required fields are completed accurately.

RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-192?)

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  • Missing required evidence or documentation.
  • Inaccurate or incomplete information in the application.
  • Failure to attend the biometric services appointment.

Eligibility signals

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  • Complete Form I-192 accurately and legibly.
  • Provide proof of citizenship and identity.
  • Include a statement explaining your inadmissibility.
  • Submit official records of any criminal convictions.
  • Provide translations for documents not in English.
  • Include evidence of rehabilitation if applicable.
  • Confirm your mailing address is valid.
  • Attend your biometric services appointment.
  • Sign and date your application.
  • Keep a copy of your application for your records.

Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-192?)

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  • General Instructions

    This section provides an overview of the application process and requirements for Form I-192.

  • Biometric Services Appointment

    Details on scheduling and attending your biometric appointment, including what to bring.

  • Specific Instructions

    Guidance on how to fill out each part of the form, including required information.

  • Address Change

    Instructions on how to notify USCIS of any changes to your address during the application process.

  • Admissibility Review Office

    Information on where to send your application and any additional documentation.

  • Processing Information

    Overview of the processing timeline and what to expect after submitting your application.

What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-192?)

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  • Part 1. Application Type: Indicate the basis for your application.
  • Part 2. Information About You: Provide your full legal name.
    • Item Number 3. Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any): Provide your A-Number.
    • Item Number 5. Date of Birth: Provide your date of birth in mm/dd/yyyy format.
    • Item Number 6. Place of Birth: Provide the city or town, state or province, and country of birth.
    • Item Number 9. Mailing Address: Provide a valid mailing address in the United States.
    • Item Numbers 12-25. Information About Your Marital History: Provide details about your current and previous marriages.
    • Item Numbers 26-36. Immigration and Criminal History: Answer all questions regarding your immigration and criminal history.
    • Item Numbers 37-43. Travel Information: Indicate your planned Port of Entry and purpose of travel.
  • Part 3. Applicant’s Statement: Sign and date your application.
    • Enter as a Nonimmigrant
    • What Is the Purpose of Form I-192?
    • Who Should File Form I-192?
    • How To Complete Form I-192
    • Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
  • Part 1. Application Type

What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-192?)

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  • Proof of citizenship and identity, such as a passport or birth certificate
  • Provide A statement under penalty of perjury explaining your inadmissibility
  • Provide Official records of any criminal convictions, including court dispositions
  • Provide Translations of any documents not in English, certified by the translator
  • Evidence of rehabilitation and character reformation, if applicable
  • Documentation supporting your request for a waiver of inadmissibility
  • Provide A valid mailing address in the United States
  • Provide A completed biometric services appointment confirmation
  • Provide Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable
  • Provide Your USCIS Online Account Number (OAN), if applicable
  • Provide Accurate identity details that match your supporting documents
  • Provide Documents that support the information you enter
  • Provide Official instructions for signature and submission rules
  • Provide Who Should File Form I-192?
  • Provide not file this application. You should contact the appropriate U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate if you have any questions
  • Provide We provide free forms through the USCIS website. To view, print, or complete our forms, you should use the latest
  • Provide Signature. You (or your signing authority) must properly complete your application. USCIS will not accept a stamped
  • Provide as valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten, ink
  • Provide Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of requested documents unless the Instructions specifically instruct you

Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-192?)

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  • Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
  • Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
  • Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
  • Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.

Checklist (What are the key steps before filing I-192?)

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  • Review the declarations before signing.
  • Use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete the form.
  • Include a valid signature; do not use a stamped or typewritten name.
  • Submit legible photocopies of all required documents.
  • Confirm that all information is complete and accurate before your biometric appointment.
  • Provide translations for any documents in a foreign language.
  • Ensure your mailing address is valid and can receive correspondence.
  • Check that you have included all required evidence as listed in the instructions.
  • If applicable, include a safe mailing address if you have concerns about receiving mail.
  • Keep a copy of your completed application for your records.
  • Download the current I-192 from the official form page.
  • Save the PDF locally and open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader so form features work correctly.
  • If the form includes validation or barcode pages, complete the validation steps and include all barcode pages in your submission.
  • Follow the form’s signature instructions (some PDFs require printing and hand-signing).
  • Complete every required section and review for consistency.
  • Follow the signature and submission instructions exactly.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit.

Fees (verify before filing)

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Fees change over time and can vary by category. Verify the latest schedule before filing.

USCIS filing fees

Common mistakes (What errors delay I-192 petitions?)

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  • Failing to sign the application or providing an invalid signature.
  • Submitting original documents when only photocopies are required.
  • Not including required translations for foreign language documents.
  • Providing incomplete or inaccurate information in the application.
  • Missing the biometric services appointment.
  • Neglecting to provide a valid mailing address.
  • Not following the specific instructions for evidence submission.
  • Failing to review the application before submission.
  • Using outdated versions of the form.
  • Not including all necessary supporting documentation.

Examples (What does a strong I-192 submission look like?)

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  • Situation: An applicant is preparing I-192 and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
  • Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for I-192. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
  • Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on I-192 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-192?)

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  • Some applicants believe they can use a stamped signature instead of a handwritten one, which is not acceptable.
  • There is a misconception that all documents must be originals; photocopies are typically sufficient unless specified otherwise.
  • Applicants may think they do not need to provide translations for documents in a foreign language, but this is required.
  • Some believe they can skip the biometric appointment, but attendance is mandatory for processing their application.

How this guide is built (Where this I-192 guidance comes from)

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This guide is built from the official instructions and current edition of Form I-192. It provides non-legal advice based on the latest requirements and evidence needed for a complete application. Always refer to the official USCIS website for the most accurate and updated information.

FAQs

What is I-192 used for?

I-192 is used to request a specific immigration benefit based on the eligibility category you select. The form must align with your supporting evidence and any underlying petition.

What happens if I submit an incomplete packet?

USCIS may reject the filing or issue a request for evidence if required documents are missing. Use the official checklist to ensure each required item is included before submission.

Do I need to submit original documents?

Most filings require legible copies unless the instructions specifically request originals. Always follow the official instructions for each document type.

How do I verify I am using the correct edition of the form?

Check the form edition date on the USCIS form page and compare it to your PDF. Submitting an outdated edition can lead to rejection.

Do I need translations for non-English documents?

Yes, USCIS typically requires certified translations for documents not in English. Include translations that meet USCIS requirements.

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.

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