Overview (What is I-193 used for?)
#I-193 (Application for Waiver of Passport and/or Visa) is an official USCIS form used in a U.S. immigration or travel process.
It explains the basis for a waiver request and the supporting facts behind it.
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-193)
#USCIS evaluates the completeness of the application, the clarity of the reason for the waiver, and the accuracy of personal information provided. A common mismatch occurs when the reason for not having a passport is vague or not well-documented.
Context & workflow (How does I-193 fit into the case?)
#The form is usually filed alongside supporting evidence listed in the instructions. 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 requesting a waiver as part of 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-193?)
#- Use identification documents to verify your name and date of birth.
- Provide travel itineraries or tickets to support your arrival details.
- Include any previous visa documentation if applicable.
- Attach proof of citizenship if required.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Missing signatures on the application.
- Submitting an outdated version of the form.
- Not including all required pages.
Substantive weaknesses
- Inconsistencies between your application and supporting documents.
- Insufficient explanation for the lack of passport.
- Failure to provide complete information about previous visas.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-193?)
#- Missing required fields such as name or address.
- Lack of a clear reason for the waiver request.
- Inconsistent information between the application and supporting documents.
- Failure to provide a valid signature on the form.
Eligibility signals
#- Accurate personal information including name and address.
- Details of travel history including arrival date and port.
- Clear explanation for the waiver request.
- Signature of the applicant.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-193?)
#FEE STAMP
Include any required fee documentation as specified in your application package.
FILE NUMBER
Provide your file number if applicable, based on previous applications or records.
1. MY NAME IS: (LAST)
Enter your last name as it appears on your identification.
(MIDDLE)
Include your middle name if applicable.
3. MY PERMANENT ADDRESS ABROAD IS:
List your permanent address outside the U.S. clearly.
4. THE COUNTRY OF WHICH I AM A CITIZEN, SUBJECT OR NATIONAL IS:
Specify your country of citizenship.
5. PLACE OF BIRTH
Indicate the city and country of your birth.
6. DATE OF ARRIVAL:
Provide the exact date you arrived in the U.S.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-193?)
#- 3. MY PERMANENT ADDRESS ABROAD IS:
- 1. MY NAME IS: (LAST)
- (FIRST)
- (MIDDLE)
- 2. MY UNITED STATES DESTINATION IS: (NUMBER AND STREET, APT. NO., CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE)
- 4. THE COUNTRY OF WHICH I AM A CITIZEN, SUBJECT OR NATIONAL IS:
- 5. PLACE OF BIRTH
- DATE OF BIRTH (MM/DD/YYYY):
- 6. DATE OF ARRIVAL:
- PORT OF ARRIVAL:
- 7. MANNER OF ARRIVAL (NAME OF VESSEL, AIRLINE, ETC.)
- 8. PLACE VISA PREVIOUSLY ISSUED:
- NUMBER:
- CLASSIFICATION:
- VALID TO:
- 9. PLACE PASSPORT ISSUED:
- 10. THE REASON I AM NOT IN POSSESSION OF PASSPORT IS AS FOLLOWS:
- PASSPORT
- (CONTINUE ON REVERSE, IF NECESSARY)
- SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT
- SIGNATURE
- ADDRESS
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-193?)
#- Provide Complete name details as per your identification documents
- Provide your U.S. destination address including street number, city, and state
- Provide List your permanent address abroad
- Provide Indicate your country of citizenship
- Provide State your place of birth
- Provide your date of birth in MM/DD/YYYY format
- Provide your date of arrival and port of arrival
- Provide Detail any previously issued visa information
- Provide State the place where your passport was issued
- Provide Explain the reason for not having your passport
- Provide A complete copy of the current form edition
- Valid identification documents that match the form biographic data
- Provide Supporting evidence for the eligibility category you select
- Provide Payment method or fee waiver evidence if applicable
- Provide Translations for any non-English documents
- Provide Copies of prior USCIS notices or receipts tied to the case
- Provide A clear mailing address and contact information that match your records
- Evidence supporting the waiver basis and qualifying relationships
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-193?)
#- 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.
- Evidence supporting the waiver ground and hardship criteria.
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing I-193?)
#- Review the form for completeness before submission.
- Make sure all names match your identification documents.
- Check that your U.S. destination address is accurate.
- Confirm your permanent address abroad is correct.
- Ensure your date of birth is in the correct format.
- Verify that your date of arrival and port of arrival are included.
- Review the reason for not having your passport for clarity.
- Sign the application where required.
- Review the declarations before signing.
- Submit any supporting documents as needed.
- Download the current I-193 from the official form page.
- Save the PDF locally and open it in a compatible PDF viewer (PDFs often work best in Adobe Reader).
- 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)
#Fees change over time and can vary by category. Verify the latest schedule before filing.
USCIS filing feesCommon mistakes (What errors delay I-193 petitions?)
#- Incorrect or incomplete name entries.
- Missing U.S. destination address.
- Omitting the date of arrival.
- Not providing a clear reason for the lack of passport.
- Errors in the date format for birth or arrival.
- Failure to sign the application.
Examples (What does a strong I-193 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing I-193 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-193. 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-193 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-193?)
#- Assuming that all fields are optional; many are required.
- Believing that a verbal explanation is sufficient; written details are necessary.
- Thinking that the form can be submitted without a signature; a signature is mandatory.
- Underestimating the importance of providing a clear reason for the waiver request; clarity is crucial.
- Believing that submitting an outdated version of the form is acceptable; always use the latest version.
How this guide is built (Where this I-193 guidance comes from)
#This guide is built from the latest official instructions and current editions of the form. It aims to provide clear, non-legal advice to help you navigate the application process effectively.
FAQs
What should I do if I don't have my passport?
If you do not have your passport, you can apply for a waiver using Form I-193. You will need to provide a detailed explanation of why you are not in possession of it.
How do I fill out the date fields?
Make sure to enter dates in the MM/DD/YYYY format as specified in the form instructions. This format is crucial for the processing of your application.
Is there a fee for submitting Form I-193?
Check the latest guidelines for any applicable fees associated with the waiver application. Fees may vary, so it's important to confirm before submission.
Can I submit the form electronically?
Currently, Form I-193 must be submitted in paper format. Ensure you follow the submission guidelines provided to avoid delays.
What happens if my waiver is denied?
If your waiver is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons. You may have options to appeal or reapply, depending on the circumstances.
What information do I need to provide about my previous visa?
You must include the place where your visa was previously issued, the visa number, classification, and its validity date. This information is important for your waiver application.
Do I need to provide a signature on the form?
Yes, a signature is mandatory on Form I-193. Make sure to sign the application to validate your request.
What if I need to provide additional information?
If you need more space for your explanation, you can continue on the reverse side of the form. Make sure to indicate that you have done so.
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.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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