USCIS announced today that it will start accepting the I-601 waiver for unlawful presence in the United States on March 4, 2013. Spouses, children (under 21) and parents of US citizens will now be able to request the I-601 waiver inside the country. Applicants will still have to go to their home consulate for an interview, but this would be after their I-601 waiver is adjudicated (approved/denied). I-601 waivers will be accepted after I-130 petition is approved. If you have not yet filed the I-130 petition, you must do that before you can apply for the I-601 waiver.