I-601A Processing Times

The I-601A is an important step for many immigrants who are in the U.S. without legal status but are married to or related to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

One of the biggest questions people have about this waiver is: “How long will it take to get the I-601A approved?”

In this blog post, we’ll explain everything about I-601A processing times, including what the waiver is, how the process works, current median wait times from USCIS, what factors slow things down, and how to minimize delays.

What is the I-601A?

There are two pathways for obtaining a green card. The preferred way for most people is called “adjustment of status” or applying for a green card without leaving the United States. Unfortunately, some people cannot apply for adjustment of status because they are inadmissible for entering and/or being in the United States unlawfully. They must instead follow a process called “consular processing” which consists of:

• Obtaining approval of an immigrant petition (such as an I-130, I-140, or I-360); and
• Attending an Immigrant Visa interview in the U.S. Embassy abroad.

However, leaving the United States after being here unlawfully can result in re-rentry ban, which prevents the applicant from returning immediately after the visa interview and can result in the separation of loved ones for many years. That is where the I-601A waiver comes into play.

The I-601A waiver, known officially as the “Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver”, is for people who are in the U.S. unlawfully (meaning you entered without permission or overstayed your visa) and who would otherwise be barred from returning to the U.S. for three or ten years after leaving the country.

This waiver helps you avoid that long bar by allowing you to apply for forgiveness before you leave the U.S. for your visa interview. The I-601A is intended to minimize the time families are separated.

You may qualify for the I-601A if:

• You are physically present in the United States
• You are at least 17 years old
• You have an approved immigrant visa petition (like an I-130)
• You can show that your absence would cause extreme hardship to your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent

About the I-601A Process

Step 1: Get Your Petition Approved

Before applying for the waiver, you must have an approved Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) or another qualifying immigrant visa petition.

Step 2: Prepare and File Form I-601A

Once the Form I-130 is approved, you can file the I-601A waiver with USCIS. This includes:

• The waiver form (I-601A).
• Evidence of hardship to your qualifying relative
• Filing fee ($795 as of April 2025 + $85 biometrics fee)
• Supporting documents (medical, financial, etc.)

Check the USCIS website for the latest updates on filing fees.

Step 3: Biometrics Appointment

After filing the I-601A, you’ll receive a notice to attend a biometrics appointment where USCIS collects your fingerprints and photo.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision From USCIS

If your I-601A waiver is approved, you can proceed with the final step of consular processing.

Step 5: Leave the U.S. for Your Visa Interview

You’ll attend your immigrant visa interview at a U.S. consulate abroad (usually in your home country). If the visa is granted, you’ll reenter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.

Median I-601A Processing Times (in Months)

The median I-601A process time for FY2025 is approximately 32 months, according to the most recent USCIS data. 

That’s just over 2.5 years.

This figure comes directly from USCIS’s fiscal year 2025 reporting and reflects the amount of time it takes for 50% of all applicants to receive a decision. Some applicants may hear back sooner, while others may experience a longer wait depending on the specifics of their case.

Even though 32 months is still a significant wait, this marks an improvement from prior years—down from a peak of 43 months in FY 2023. It’s a hopeful sign that USCIS is working through the backlog more efficiently.

Here are the median I-601A processing times (in months) over the past six fiscal years:

Source: USCIS Historic Processing Times

Factors That Influence the I-601A Processing Times

There are many variables that can affect how fast—or how slow—your I-601A waiver is processed. Here are some of the most common:

1. High application volume

The HART Service Center processes thousands of I-601A applications. The more people applying, the longer it can take for USCIS to work through the backlog.

2. Incomplete applications

One of the biggest delays is caused by errors or missing documents. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE), your case will be paused until you respond.

Check out our comprehensive RFE guide to learn more.

3. Background and security checks

All applicants undergo extensive background checks. If there are any complications—such as prior immigration violations or unresolved criminal history—it can delay the process.

Strategies to Minimize Unnecessary Delays

While you can’t control everything, there are several things you can do to help speed up your I-601A processing time:

✓ Double-check everything: Mistakes on your forms, missing signatures, and missing evidence are among the most common reasons for delays.

✓ Strengthen your case: Spend time gathering detailed evidence to show the extreme hardship your qualifying relative would face if your waiver isn’t approved. Include:

• Medical records
• Mental health evaluations
  Financial documents
• Proof of family ties
  

✓ Respond to an RFE quickly

If you receive a Request for Evidence, don’t wait—gather the necessary documents and respond as soon as possible. Read our RFE guide for detailed guidance on how to best to respond to an RFE request. 

✓ Work with an immigration attorney

Although not required, having a skilled immigration attorney can significantly reduce the chances of making costly errors and ensure that your application is as strong as possible from the beginning. 

Reach out to us at Manifest Law and request a consultation.

✓ Monitor your case status

Track your case using the USCIS Case Status Online tool. If your case is outside normal processing times, you may be able to submit an inquiry.

With I-601A processing times now reaching over 2 years, it’s more important than ever to do everything right the first time. If you need help, reach out to us at Manifest Law.

FAQs About I-601A Processing Times

Can I expedite my I-601A waiver?

USCIS generally does not allow expedited processing for I-601A waivers. However, you can request it under specific circumstances—such as urgent humanitarian reasons or severe financial loss.

How do I know if my case is outside normal processing times?

Check your receipt date on the USCIS Case Status page. If your application was filed well before the “case inquiry date,” you may be eligible to ask for an update.

Will hiring an immigration attorney make my case go faster?

Not directly, but an immigration attorney can help you avoid delays by ensuring your application is strong, well-organized, and complete the first time around.

What happens after my I-601A is approved?

Once your waiver is approved, your visa interview will be scheduled at a U.S. consulate. After your interview and approval, you’ll return to the U.S. as a green card holder.