USCIS Issues New Waiver Policies and Procedures (Aug. 23, 2017 Policy Alert)

USCIS Policy Alert, Aug. 23, 2017 - 

"Policy Alert

SUBJECT: Waiver Policies and Procedures

Purpose

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the general policies and procedures applicable to the adjudication of waivers of inadmissibility.

Background

Generally, foreign nationals may not be allowed to enter or obtain certain immigration benefits in the United States if they are inadmissible. These foreign nationals may overcome the inadmissibility if they apply for and are eligible to receive a waiver. This new guidance contained in Volume 9 of the Policy Manual was not previously available through the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM). All prior related policy memoranda are rescinded. The new guidance contained in the Policy Manual is controlling and supersedes any
prior guidance.

Policy Highlights

 Explains the distinction between waivers, exceptions, exemptions, and consent to
reapply.
 Provides a general overview of the adjudication of a waiver application.
 Explains the availability of waivers of inadmissibility and identifies the general eligibility
requirements for the waiver.
 Describes what factors officers may consider when determining whether a waiver is
warranted as a matter of discretion.
 Outlines scope and validity of approved waivers of inadmissibility.

Citation

Volume 9: Waivers, Part A, Waiver Policies and Procedures [9 USCIS-PM A]."