Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver
Allows certain immediate relatives of U.S. citizens to apply for a waiver of unlawful presence before leaving the U.S. for a consular interview, reducing the time separated from family.
Filing fee
$800
+ $30 biometrics
Typical processing
12–36 mo
As of 2026-06-12
Category
humanitarian
USCIS (online or by mail to designated facility)
Processing time
Typical range: 12–36 months
Estimate based on USCIS data reviewed 2026-06-12. USCIS processing times change monthly and vary by service center and case specifics. Always check the live USCIS processing-times tool at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for the current range for your specific case type and service center.
Estimate your timeline for this form
Enter your case received date to calculate your estimated completion window and case inquiry date.
Filing fee
Filing fee: $800 + $30 biometrics
Source: USCIS Form G-1055 (effective April 1, 2024); uscis.gov/i-601a
Fees and form details last reviewed June 2026 against the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055, effective April 1, 2024). Always confirm the current fee at uscis.gov before filing.
Where to file
USCIS (online or by mail to designated facility)
Always confirm the current filing location and instructions at uscis.gov — official I-601A page .
Common questions
- What is Form I-601A?
- Allows certain immediate relatives of U.S. citizens to apply for a waiver of unlawful presence before leaving the U.S. for a consular interview, reducing the time separated from family.
- How much does it cost to file Form I-601A?
- The USCIS filing fee for Form I-601A is $800, from the fee schedule effective April 1, 2024. A biometric services fee of $30 also applies. Always confirm the current fee at uscis.gov before paying.
- How long does I-601A take?
- USCIS reports a typical processing range of 12–36 months for Form I-601A as of 2026-06-12. Processing times change monthly — always check egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for the current range.