FORM I-212 APPLICATION FOR PERMISSION TO REAPPLY FOR ADMISSION

COVER LETTER AND EVIDENCE CHECKLIST

Filing Overview

• Applicant: [NAME], A#: [A-NUMBER]
• Prior removal/deportation/voluntary departure order: [TYPE], Date: [DATE], Court/Port: [DETAILS]
• Inadmissibility trigger: [212(a)(9)(A) / 212(a)(9)(C) if applicable]; 5/10-year bar end date: [DATE]
• Current pathway: [Consular IV / AOS (if eligible) / Nonimmigrant waiver with CBP if applicable]
• Related filings: [I-601, I-601A, IV case number]; Country of interview: [POST]

Packet Order (suggested)

1) Cover letter (this document) summarizing procedural history and discretionary factors.
2) Form I-212 (signed).
3) Filing fee.
4) Copy of removal/deportation/VD order and proof of departure compliance (if available).
5) Evidence of time elapsed outside the United States.
6) Positive equities: family ties to U.S., community support letters, employment offers, education records.
7) Hardship evidence to qualifying relatives (if paired with I-601) and public interest factors.
8) Rehabilitation evidence (if criminal history): dispositions, completion of sentences/programs, character letters.
9) Evidence of law-abiding conduct abroad (police clearances, employment records).
10) Proof of approved underlying petition (I-130/I-140) or nonimmigrant intent package if using a 212(d)(3) route.
11) Certified translations.

Cover Letter Body (sample)

text
Date: [DATE]

[USCIS LOCKBOX/CBP ADMISSIBILITY REVIEW OFFICE ADDRESS]

RE: Form I-212 - Permission to Reapply for Admission
Applicant: [NAME, A#]
Prior Order: [TYPE/DATE/COURT]

Dear Officer:

Enclosed please find Form I-212 requesting consent to reapply for admission following a [TYPE] order issued on [DATE]. The applicant has remained outside the United States since [DATE] and seeks to reunite with qualifying relatives through [IV/NIV route]. Favorable discretion is warranted based on family unity, rehabilitation, and the public interest factors outlined herein.

Enclosures are organized as listed above.

Sincerely,
[NAME/ATTORNEY]
[ADDRESS]
[PHONE] | [EMAIL]

Discretionary Factors to Address

• Length of residence in U.S. and family ties (USC/LPR relatives).
• Evidence of good moral character and rehabilitation.
• Hardship to qualifying relatives and public interest benefits.
• Seriousness of underlying violations and time since occurrence.
• Compliance with prior orders and absence of subsequent violations.

Practice Notes

• Confirm proper venue (USCIS lockbox vs. ARB/CBP for certain NIV waivers).
• Coordinate with I-601 or consular processing timelines; ensure bars and departure dates are accurately calculated.
• For 212(a)(9)(C) permanent bar scenarios, analyze 10-year outside requirement and eligibility before filing.
• Include proof of departure to prevent disputes about continuous unlawful presence.
• Keep copies and track receipts; biometrics may be required.