Form I-212 Guide

USCIS evaluates the applicant's inadmissibility under INA sections 212(a)(9)(A) and (C). Common mismatches include insufficient evidence of residence abroad and missing signatures on the application. It's important to provide clear and complete documentation to support your request.

• Provide copies of entry/exit stamps from your passport to demonstrate your travel history.
• Include receipts for airplane tickets to support your claims of residence abroad.
• Submit utility bills in your name to prove your residence outside the U.S.
• Gather affidavits from individuals who can attest to your circumstances and need for reapplication.

• Missing required evidence or documentation that supports your application.
• Incomplete or incorrect signatures on the application, which can lead to denial.
• Failure to provide translations for foreign documents, which is a requirement.
• Inconsistencies in personal information across documents submitted with the application.
• Not providing evidence of rehabilitation or ties to the U.S. when required.

• Complete Form I-212 accurately and legibly.
• Provide all necessary evidence as specified in the instructions.
• Include a valid signature on the application.
• Pay the required filing fee.
• Submit supporting documents within the specified timeframes.

• General Instructions

  This section outlines the overall requirements for completing Form I-212, including the need for a valid signature and the importance of providing accurate information.

• Biometric Services Appointment

  You may be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and signatures for identity verification.

• Specific Instructions

  This section details the specific requirements for completing each part of the form, including what evidence to submit.

• Address Change

  If your address changes after filing, you must notify USCIS to ensure you receive all correspondence regarding your application.

• Processing Information

  This section provides information on how your application will be processed and what to expect after submission.

• DHS Privacy Notice

  Review the privacy notice to understand how your personal information will be used and protected during the application process.

• Your Full Name
• Other Names Used
• Alien Registration Number
• Sex
• Marital History
• Employment History
• Address History
• Biometric Services Appointment
• Signature
• Contact Information
• Re-apply for Admission Into the United States
• After Deportation or Removal
• What Is the Purpose of Form I-212?
• Why Do I Need Consent to Reapply?
• obtain consent to reapply in the Detailed Description of Grounds of Inadmissibility Under INA Sections 212(a)(9)(A)
• Who Should File This Application?
• Inadmissibility Under INA section 212(a)(9)(A)
• not); and

• 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.

• Missing or invalid signature on the application.
• Not providing sufficient evidence to support your inadmissibility claim.
• Submitting documents in a foreign language without a certified translation.
• Failing to include the filing fee as outlined in Form G-1055.
• Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.
• Not reviewing the checklist for required documents.

• Situation: An applicant is preparing I-212 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-212. 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-212 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

• Some believe they can return to the U.S. without filing Form I-212 after deportation, which can lead to permanent inadmissibility under INA section 212(a)(9)(C).
• There is a misconception that a stamped signature is acceptable; only handwritten signatures are valid for filing.
• Many think that submitting original documents is always necessary, but only copies are required unless specified otherwise in the instructions.
• Some applicants assume they can file Form I-212 while still in the U.S., but this is not allowed if they are inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(9)(C).
• It's commonly thought that any evidence will suffice, but only specific types of evidence listed in the instructions will support the application.

This guide is built from the official instructions for Form I-212, ensuring that all information is current and accurate. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the application process effectively.

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