Formulario I-212

Re-entry Permit I-212

The I-212 is the form to request permission to return to the United States after being deported, removed, or having left under a removal order. Without this permit, re-entry is illegal and can result in criminal charges.

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What is the I-212 and who needs it?

Every person who was deported or removed from the United States and wishes to return legally must first obtain I-212 approval. This applies even if they already have a visa or approved family petition.

The I-212 is filed with USCIS or the U.S. consulate abroad, depending on whether the person is inside or outside the country. It is often filed together with the I-601 to resolve both inadmissibility barriers at the same time.

Inadmissibility periods after deportation

5 years

First deportation at port of entry without hearing

10 years

Deportation after formal removal proceeding

20 years

Second deportation or removal

Permanent

Deportation with aggravated felony conviction

⚠ Important: The I-212 can be filed before the bar expires or during the bar period. Approval is not guaranteed — USCIS evaluates each case individually.

Who can apply for the I-212?

✅ Deported individuals who want to return with visa or residency

✅ Those who left under a voluntary removal order

✅ People with approved I-130 petition but inadmissible due to prior deportation

✅ Those who want to return during the bar period with special permission

❌ People who entered without inspection without formal deportation (they need I-601, not I-212)

💡 I-601 + I-212: The most common combination

Many cases require both waivers at the same time: the I-601 to remove inadmissibility for unlawful presence or misrepresentation, and the I-212 to obtain re-entry permission for the prior deportation.

Our team evaluates which one(s) apply to your specific case and prepares both applications in a coordinated manner to maximize approval chances.

Were you deported and want to return?

We evaluate your case for free and tell you if you qualify for the I-212.

📋 Request evaluation → See also: I-601 →