INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i) commonly referred to as “212a6ci” is one of the most feared findings in US immigration law. It applies when USCIS or a US consulate believes an individual willfully misrepresented a material fact to obtain an immigration benefit.
A 212(a)(6)(C)(i) finding triggers a lifetime bar but it does NOT always mean denial is final. Every year, we assist many applicants successfully challenge, appeal, obtain I-601 hardship waivers, or 212(d)(3) waivers to overcome this bar.
This comprehensive guide explains:
- What 212(a)(6)(C)(i) means;
- Why it is issued;
- How to fight it;
- Realistic successful case examples;
- When a 212(i) waiver works; and
- How to maximize your chances of approval.
What Is INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i)?
If a person willfully and materially misrepresents a fact to gain a US immigration benefit, they become inadmissible for life.
Key elements US government must prove:
- The applicant knowingly provided false or misleading information.
- A false statement, omission, or misleading response.
- The fact must be significant enough to influence the immigration decision.
- The misrepresentation must be intended to gain a U.S. immigration benefit.
Common Reasons Leading to 212(a)(6)(C)(i)
- Incorrect employment information (OPT or H-1B)
- Misstating immigration history
- Failing to disclose a prior visa denial
- Knowingly using fraudulent documents
- Incorrect marital or family information
- Inconsistencies during visa or green card interviews
- Student visa (F-1) misrepresentation allegations
- OPT/CPT misuse allegations (very common)
Yes, We Can Overcome 212(a)(6)(C)(i). Here Are Examples of Our Successful Cases.
Successful Case #1: Misrepresentation Reversed (No Waiver Needed)
Issue:
An applicant filed I-539 on his own and received a Request for More Evidence. USCIS claimed the company he listed as an employer on an OPT I-20 was fraudulent and alleged misrepresentation.
Outcome:
USCIS withdrew the 212(a)(6)(C)(i) allegation. Our client’s I-539 was approved without a waiver.
Successful Case #2: I-601 Hardship Waiver Approved for Spouse
Issue:
A consular officer claimed an immigrant visa applicant failed to disclose prior overstays.
Outcome:
I-601 approved and our client received an immigrant visa
Successful Case #3: Green Card Granted After NOID Rebuttal
Issue:
USCIS accused our client of misrepresenting previous employment during an H-1B petition.
Outcome:
USCIS closed the misrepresentation allegation and I-485 approved.
Successful Case #4: Student Visa Misrepresentation Overcome
Issue:
The applicant allegedly lied about previous visa denials in DS-160.
Outcome:
The consulate removed the 212(a)(6)(C)(i) finding and F-1 visa was issued.
Successful Case #5: Misrepresentation Not Material → Bar Removed
Issue:
Applicant entered an incorrect job title on a visa form due to an innocent mistake.
Outcome:
Officer overturned the 212a6ci finding and no waiver was required.
When You Need a I-601 Waiver
If the finding cannot be overturned, you must show extreme hardship to a US citizen or LPR spouse or parent. Hardship can include:
- Medical conditions
- Pregnancy or high-risk pregnancy
- Mental health issues (anxiety, PTSD, depression)
- Financial collapse
- Losing access to essential care for children
- Country specific dangers
- Separation hardship
A well-documented hardship package can secure approval even when the misrepresentation occurred many years earlier.
Your Path to Approval Starts with the Right Legal Team
Overcoming an INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i) misrepresentation finding is entirely possible with the right strategy, the right evidence, and the right guidance. Every year, we help applicants just like you successfully challenge USCIS, Consulate, CBP mistakes, reverse wrongful findings, win I-601 waivers, and secure the approvals when they once thought were out of reach. Your case is not hopeless and you don’t have to face this process alone. Email us at info@messersmithlaw.com or call us at 305-515-0613 Same-Day Consultations Available. Let us help you turn a 212(a)(6)(C)(i) setback into a success story of your own.