Gathering Evidence for an Extreme Hardship Waiver
Winning a waiver case requires more than just telling USCIS that separation is difficult. You need documented, specific, credible evidence addressing every relevant hardship factor. Here is what to gather.
Medical Evidence
- Physician letters or medical records documenting a serious condition in the qualifying relative.
- Evidence that specialized medical care is available in the U.S. but not in the applicant’s home country.
- Psychological evaluations documenting depression, anxiety, or PTSD related to the prospect of separation.
Financial Evidence
- Tax returns and pay stubs showing household income and financial dependency.
- Evidence that the qualifying relative would face financial hardship without the applicant.
- Documentation of debts, mortgage, or other financial obligations.
Country Condition Evidence
- State Department Country Reports on Human Rights Practices.
- Evidence of violence, instability, or lack of medical care in the home country.
- Language barriers for the qualifying U.S. relative if required to relocate.
Family and Personal Evidence
- Declarations from the qualifying relative describing the emotional impact
- Evidence of U.S. citizen children and their ties to the United States
- School records for children
- Evidence of extended family in the U.S. with dependency on the applicant
