Immigration Waivers
Helping Families Overcome Immigration Obstacles in New Orleans
New Orleans Immigration Lawyers
At The Rousell Law Firm, we understand how complex and emotional the U.S. immigration process can be—especially when families face barriers to entry or status. Some individuals are deemed “inadmissible” to the United States due to past criminal convictions, prior immigration violations, health issues, or misrepresentations.
Fortunately, many people are still eligible for waivers that can forgive these grounds of inadmissibility and allow them to move forward toward lawful immigration status.
Our New Orleans immigration attorneys help clients identify the reason for inadmissibility, determine which waiver applies, and build a strong case supported by credible evidence and documentation.
Common Types of Immigration Waivers
Each type of waiver serves a specific purpose depending on your immigration history and goals. Below are the most common categories:
Inadmissibility Waivers for Nonimmigrants
If you wish to enter the U.S. temporarily but have a past issue (such as a criminal record or previous overstay), you may be eligible to request a nonimmigrant waiver to obtain a visa.
Removal and Fraud-Related Waivers
These waivers can apply to both nonimmigrants and lawful permanent residents (LPRs).
They may be available in cases involving:
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Alleged immigration fraud or misrepresentation;
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Certain criminal convictions; or
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Humanitarian or family hardship factors.
Three-Year and Ten-Year Bar Waivers
If you or a loved one remained in the U.S. unlawfully and then departed, you may face a three-year or ten-year reentry bar.
A waiver may be available for spouses or children of U.S. citizens or LPRs who can prove qualifying hardship.
Criminal and Moral Turpitude Waivers
Individuals with older criminal offenses—typically more than 15 years old—may qualify for a waiver. A similar type of moral turpitude waiver can also apply to keep families together when a spouse or parent faces removal based on certain convictions.
Extreme Hardship Waivers for Family Members
Perhaps the most common family-based waiver, this applies when denial of admission would cause “extreme hardship”to a qualifying relative who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Our firm knows what circumstances the USCIS finds persuasive and will help you present the strongest possible case to reunite your family.
Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver (Form I-601A)
Certain immigrants who are immediate relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can request a provisional waiver before leaving the U.S. for a consular interview. This process helps minimize the time families are separated and allows applicants to complete most of the process while remaining in the United States.
Why You Might Need a Waiver
You may need a waiver if you have ever:
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Been deported or removed from the U.S.
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Overstayed your visa expiration date.
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Been charged or convicted of a crime.
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Committed fraud or misrepresentation in an immigration application.
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Have certain health-related conditions or vaccine issues.
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Are considered likely to become a “public charge.”
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Violated prior immigration orders or reentered unlawfully.
Health and Vaccine-Related Waivers
USCIS may deny entry based on public health concerns, but in some cases, you can request a waiver if:
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The condition is treatable or under medical supervision.
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A medical professional certifies that vaccination is not medically appropriate.
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The applicant’s religious or moral beliefs prohibit vaccination.
Note: Drug addiction or abuse generally cannot be waived for adjustment or immigrant visa applicants, but special exceptions may apply—our firm can review your eligibility.
What USCIS Considers When Granting a Waiver
USCIS evaluates several key factors when deciding waiver applications:
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Whether a waiver is legally available for your specific inadmissibility ground.
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Whether you meet all statutory and regulatory requirements.
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Whether the evidence supports a favorable exercise of discretion.
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The humanitarian, family unity, and national interest factors in your case.
Government (USCIS) Filing Fees
Form & Waiver Type | Purpose | USCIS Filing Fee |
|---|---|---|
Biometrics Fee (if applicable) | Required for some waiver types, typically for applicants inside the U.S. | $85 |
Form I-212 – Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission After Deportation or Removal | For individuals who were previously deported or removed and need permission to reapply for lawful entry into the U.S. | $930 |
Form I-601A – Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver | For spouses, parents, or children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who are unlawfully present in the U.S. and applying for a waiver before departing for consular processing. | $715 |
Form I-601 – Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility | For individuals who are inadmissible due to unlawful presence, misrepresentation, or certain criminal grounds. | $930 |
Note: USCIS fees are subject to change. Always confirm the most current fee schedule before filing.
How Our New Orleans Immigration Attorneys Can Help
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At The Rousell Law Firm, we guide clients through every step of the immigration waiver process. We:
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Identify the exact grounds of inadmissibility.
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Prepare waiver applications and supporting evidence.
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Coordinate with doctors, employers, and family members for documentation.
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Present a persuasive hardship argument that meets USCIS standards.
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We’re committed to helping families stay together and achieve lawful immigration status in the United States.
TYPICAL COSTS
&
FEES
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires government filing fees, which vary by case type. Typical expenses include:
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Petition for Family-Based Immigration: $675
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Adjustment of Status (green card within the U.S.): $1,440
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Employment Authorization (optional): $260
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Advance Parole (optional): $630
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Consular Processing Fees (if applying abroad): $120–$325 p/p
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Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): $235
Attorney’s fees are separate and depend on the complexity of the case. At The Rousell Law Firm, we provide transparent fee structures and clear guidance so families know what to expect from the start.
The Rousell Law Firm's Team
Clarity in Counsel. Results-Driven Solutions. An Open, Honest Process.
At Rousell Law Firm, we blend compassionate guidance with thoughtful legal strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your individual needs, craft a customized plan, and deliver a clear path forward — offering straightforward expectations, transparent pricing, and practical timelines.
Same Day Consultations
Tailored Approach & Transparent Guidance
Serving Greater New Orleans Metro & Surrounding Areas
Joelann S. Rousell, J.D., MBA
Managing Attorney
Attorney Rousell is a dedicated and skilled legal professional committed to providing exceptional representation for clients facing family law, immigration, personal and other legal matters.
Arielle M. Lewis, J.D.
(Of Counsel)
Attorney Lewis (Of Counsel) assists the Rousell Law Firm with all family matters, such as: divorce, child custody, child support, and community property matters.
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Heather Rousell
Social Media/Marketing Consultant
Heather Rousell serves as the firm’s Social Media and Marketing Consultant, overseeing digital strategy, brand presence, and client engagement across all platforms.
How The Rousell Law Firm Can Help?
Our team works with clients across the New Orleans metropolitan area and South Louisiana. We:
Carefully prepare and review petitions to minimize errors.
Advise on eligibility, visa category, and wait times.
Support families through each step of the application and interview process.
Provide compassionate, client-focused representation with the goal of reuniting loved
At The Rousell Law Firm, we believe families belong together—and we are committed to helping you navigate the path to U.S. residency for the people you love.
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