Travel authorization, also known as Advance Parole, requires submitting Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with a copy of a valid Form I-797, Notice of Action, if applicable. Applicants must include proof of their current immigration status, such as a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or a pending adjustment of status receipt notice. Supporting documents like a copy of a government-issued photo ID and evidence demonstrating the purpose of travel are also necessary to ensure a complete application for Advance Parole.
What Documents Are Needed for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole)?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Combo Card (EAD/AP Card) | The Combo Card (EAD/AP Card) serves as a dual-purpose travel authorization and employment permit for certain Adjustment of Status applicants, requiring Form I-131, Form I-765, a copy of the pending I-485 receipt notice, and proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate. Supporting documents must include recent passport-style photos, evidence of current immigration status, and a detailed explanation for the need to travel while the adjustment application is pending. |
| 2 | USCIS Form I-131 Receipt Notice | The USCIS Form I-131 Receipt Notice serves as proof of application for Advance Parole, allowing immigrants to travel abroad while their adjustment of status petition is pending. This document, along with a valid passport and any additional supporting materials specified by USCIS, is essential to present at the port of entry for authorized reentry to the United States. |
| 3 | DACA Advance Parole | Applicants requesting DACA Advance Parole must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with proof of current DACA status, a copy of the EAD (Employment Authorization Document), and a detailed explanation of the reason for travel related to humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes. Supporting documents such as a valid passport, evidence of the urgent travel justification, and recent photographs are also required to ensure approval of the travel authorization. |
| 4 | Humanitarian Parole Evidence | Humanitarian parole evidence for travel authorization (Advance Parole) includes a detailed letter from a qualified U.S. government agency or medical professional explaining the urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit warranting travel. Supporting documents such as medical records, affidavits, and proof of the beneficiary's identity are essential to strengthen the parole request. |
| 5 | Travel Authorization Approval Notice | The Travel Authorization Approval Notice is essential for Advance Parole, serving as the official document confirming USCIS approval for re-entry into the United States. This notice must be presented alongside valid identification and the Advance Parole document during international travel to ensure smooth border access. |
| 6 | Refugee Travel Document | A Refugee Travel Document requires submitting Form I-131, a copy of the refugee or asylee status approval, proof of identity such as a passport or government-issued photo ID, and two passport-style photos. Supporting evidence may include a detailed explanation of the travel purpose, any pending immigration applications, and payment of the applicable filing fees to ensure eligibility for advance parole. |
| 7 | Valid TPS-based Advance Parole | Valid TPS-based Advance Parole requires submitting Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with evidence of Temporary Protected Status approval, a copy of the applicant's I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, and a valid passport or travel document. Proof of the purpose of travel, such as an employment letter, medical appointment, or family emergency documentation, is also essential to secure authorization for re-entry into the United States. |
| 8 | Biometrics Appointment Letter | The Biometrics Appointment Letter is a crucial document required for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole) as it confirms your scheduled date, time, and location for fingerprinting and photograph collection, essential for identity verification. Without attending the biometrics appointment as per this letter, your Advance Parole application may face delays or denial by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 9 | Emergency Advance Parole Request | Emergency Advance Parole request requires a completed Form I-131, supporting evidence of the emergency such as medical records or death certificates, a copy of the applicant's current immigration documents, and proof of identity like a passport photo. Timely submission of these documents to USCIS ensures expedited processing for travelers needing urgent authorization to re-enter the United States. |
| 10 | CBP Inspection Sheet | The CBP Inspection Sheet is a critical document within the Advance Parole travel authorization process, detailing the record of an individual's entry and exit inspections by U.S. Customs and Border Protection authorities. It serves as official evidence verifying compliance with travel permissions granted under an Advance Parole document, facilitating smooth re-entry into the United States. |
Introduction to Advance Parole in U.S. Immigration
| Introduction to Advance Parole in U.S. Immigration | |
|---|---|
| Definition | Advance Parole is a U.S. immigration document that allows certain non-citizens to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad without a visa. |
| Purpose | It permits travel outside the U.S. for individuals who do not yet have permanent resident status but need permission to return. |
| Who Needs It? | Applicants adjusting status, refugees, asylum seekers, and other eligible non-citizens often require Advance Parole for international travel. |
| Documents Needed for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole) | |
| Form I-131 | Application for Travel Document, required to request Advance Parole from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| Proof of Identity | Copy of passport biographic page, U.S. visa, or other government-issued identification. |
| Evidence of Status | Documents demonstrating current lawful status, such as a pending Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). |
| Photographs | Two recent passport-style photos meeting USCIS specifications. |
| Supporting Documents | Explanation of the reason for travel and supporting evidence, such as medical necessity, family emergency, or employment requirement. |
| Filing Fee | Payment of the required fee or a fee waiver request when applicable. |
| Important Notes | |
| Validity | Advance Parole typically allows multiple entries for the duration it is granted, often one year or less, depending on the case. |
| Travel Risk | Leaving the U.S. without approved Advance Parole can result in denial of re-entry or abandonment of adjustment of status application. |
What Is a Travel Authorization Document?
Travel Authorization, often referred to as Advance Parole, allows certain immigrants to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad without a visa. This document is essential for those with pending immigration applications who seek to maintain their legal status during international travel.
- Definition of Advance Parole - A travel authorization document issued by USCIS that permits travel outside the U.S. while an immigration petition is pending.
- Purpose of the Document - It ensures the applicant can return to the U.S. without jeopardizing their adjustment of status application.
- Form I-131 Requirement - Applicants must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request Advance Parole.
Who Needs Advance Parole?
Travel authorization, known as Advance Parole, allows certain non-citizens to re-enter the United States without a visa after traveling abroad. This permission is critical for individuals without permanent residency who need to maintain their immigration status while traveling.
- Individuals with Pending Adjustment of Status Applications - These applicants require Advance Parole to travel abroad without abandoning their green card application.
- DACA Recipients - Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients must obtain Advance Parole for approved travel reasons such as education, employment, or humanitarian needs.
- Humanitarian or Emergency Travelers - Non-citizens facing urgent family or medical situations often seek Advance Parole to ensure lawful return to the U.S.
Eligibility Criteria for Advance Parole
Travel authorization through Advance Parole allows certain eligible individuals to re-enter the United States without a visa. This document is essential for those who have pending immigration applications and wish to travel abroad temporarily.
Eligibility criteria include having a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You must demonstrate a valid reason for travel, such as humanitarian purposes, employment, or educational needs.
Required Forms and Supporting Documents
Travel Authorization, commonly known as Advance Parole, requires specific documentation for approval. Proper submission of required forms and supporting documents is crucial to avoid delays or denials.
- Form I-131, Application for Travel Document - This is the primary form used to request Advance Parole from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Proof of Identity - A valid government-issued photo ID such as a passport or green card must be included to verify the applicant's identity.
- Evidence of Pending Immigration Status - Supporting documents like a pending adjustment of status application or asylum case file must be provided to demonstrate eligibility for travel authorization.
Submitting a complete packet with these required forms and documents increases the likelihood of a successful Advance Parole application.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Advance Parole
To apply for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole), applicants must first gather essential documents including Form I-131, a copy of their current immigration status, and a valid government-issued ID. Supporting evidence such as a copy of the applicant's passport and a detailed explanation for travel purposes is required.
The next step is to complete Form I-131 accurately, indicating the type of travel document requested and purpose of travel. After the form is completed, applicants should compile all supporting documents and submit the package to the designated USCIS address with the correct filing fee.
Once the application is received, USCIS will send a receipt notice with a tracking number for status updates. Applicants might be required to attend a biometric appointment where fingerprints and photographs are taken for identity verification.
Processing times for Advance Parole vary, but applicants can check status online using their receipt number. Upon approval, the travel document is mailed and must be presented upon re-entry to the United States.
Processing Times and Application Fees
To apply for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole), you need Form I-131, a copy of your current immigration status, and supporting evidence of your reason for travel. Processing times typically range from 3 to 5 months, depending on the service center handling the application. The application fee is $575, with additional biometric fees possibly required based on individual circumstances.
Risks and Limitations of Advance Parole
What documents are needed for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole)? The key documents include a completed Form I-131, a copy of your passport or government-issued ID, and proof of your immigration status such as a receipt or approval notice. Supporting evidence like photographs and a detailed travel explanation may also be required.
What are the risks and limitations of Advance Parole? Advance Parole does not guarantee re-entry to the U.S. and may result in denial at the port of entry, risking unintended abandonment of certain immigration applications. Traveling with Advance Parole can interrupt your adjustment of status process and may expose you to legal complications if not properly managed.
Traveling Abroad with Advance Parole: What to Expect
Traveling abroad with Advance Parole requires specific documentation to ensure re-entry into the United States. Key documents include the approved Form I-131, Advance Parole travel document, a valid passport from your home country, and any additional identification as required by immigration authorities. It is essential to carry these documents during your trip to present at U.S. ports of entry for inspection and approval of re-entry.
What Documents Are Needed for Travel Authorization (Advance Parole)? Infographic
