To apply for a reentry permit using Form I-131, applicants must submit a copy of their valid green card (Permanent Resident Card) as proof of their permanent resident status. A completed and signed Form I-131 is required, along with supporting evidence such as a detailed explanation of the reason for travel and intended duration outside the United States. Passport-style photos and the applicable filing fee must also be included to ensure the application is properly processed.
What Documents Are Required for Reentry Permit Application (Form I-131)?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biometric Services Appointment Notice (ASC Appointment Letter) | The Biometric Services Appointment Notice, also known as the ASC Appointment Letter, is a critical document required for the Form I-131 reentry permit application process, informing applicants of their scheduled biometric data collection at an Application Support Center. This notice must be presented at the appointment to complete fingerprinting, photograph, and signature capture, essential steps for USCIS to process and verify the reentry permit application. |
| 2 | Digital Passport Photo Upload | The reentry permit application (Form I-131) requires applicants to upload a digital passport photo meeting USCIS specifications, including a recent, color image with a white background, measuring 2x2 inches and displaying the full face directly facing the camera. Ensuring the photo file format is JPEG, with a size between 240KB and 1MB, enhances acceptance during the digital submission process. |
| 3 | Mobile Device Authentication Code | Applicants for a Reentry Permit (Form I-131) must provide a valid mobile device authentication code as part of the identity verification process required by USCIS's two-factor authentication system. This code ensures secure access to the online application portal and protects sensitive personal information during the submission of Form I-131. |
| 4 | Conditional Permanent Resident Green Card Copy | A copy of the Conditional Permanent Resident Green Card is essential for reentry permit application (Form I-131) as it verifies the applicant's current immigration status and eligibility. This document must be clearly legible and valid to ensure USCIS can accurately process the reentry permit request. |
| 5 | E-signature Authorization Form | The E-signature Authorization Form is a crucial document required when applying for a Reentry Permit (Form I-131), allowing applicants or their representatives to legally sign the application electronically. This form ensures compliance with USCIS regulations, streamlines the submission process, and must be accurately completed to avoid delays in reentry permit processing. |
| 6 | Machine-Readable Passport Data Page | The Machine-Readable Passport Data Page must be included with the Form I-131 reentry permit application to verify the applicant's identity and citizenship. This page contains essential information such as the passport number, expiration date, and personal details critical for processing the reentry permit. |
| 7 | Evidence of Continuous Residence (e.g., digital utility bills) | Evidence of continuous residence for Form I-131 reentry permit applications includes digital utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements that clearly show the applicant's name, address, and consistent residency dates. These documents must be recent, authentic, and cover the entire period of claimed continuous residence to satisfy USCIS requirements. |
| 8 | Recent International Travel Itinerary (e-ticket confirmation) | Applicants for a reentry permit (Form I-131) must submit a recent international travel itinerary, including an e-ticket confirmation, to demonstrate their planned departure and return dates. This document serves as evidence of intent to maintain continuous residence and supports timely processing of the reentry permit application. |
| 9 | Advanced Parole Denial/Rejection Notice (if applicable) | Applicants for a reentry permit (Form I-131) must include a copy of the Advanced Parole Denial or Rejection Notice if they have previously been denied advanced parole, as this notice provides crucial evidence of prior application outcomes. This document ensures USCIS accurately reviews the applicant's history, which directly impacts the adjudication of the reentry permit request. |
| 10 | Electronic Form I-94 Travel History Record | The reentry permit application (Form I-131) requires submission of the Electronic Form I-94 Travel History Record to verify continuous residence and travel details. This document provides crucial entry and exit dates used by USCIS to assess eligibility for the reentry permit. |
Introduction to Reentry Permit (Form I-131)
The Reentry Permit (Form I-131) is a travel document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows lawful permanent residents to reenter the United States after traveling abroad. It serves as proof of the holder's intention to maintain permanent residency while outside the country.
- Valid Permanent Resident Card - Applicants must provide a copy of their Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) as proof of lawful permanent resident status.
- Completed Form I-131 - The Reentry Permit application requires filling out Form I-131 with accurate personal and travel information.
- Photographs - Two recent passport-style photographs are required to verify the applicant's identity for the reentry permit process.
Importance of the Reentry Permit for U.S. Permanent Residents
The Reentry Permit is a critical document for U.S. permanent residents planning extended travel outside the United States. It helps protect their resident status by allowing reentry without the risk of abandonment after prolonged absence.
When applying for the Reentry Permit using Form I-131, specific documents are required to ensure proper processing. Key documents include a copy of the permanent resident card (Green Card) and evidence of intent to return to the United States.
Who Should Apply for a Reentry Permit?
| Who Should Apply for a Reentry Permit? | |
|---|---|
| Permanent Residents Planning Extended Travel | Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) who intend to remain outside the United States for more than one year but less than two years. A reentry permit helps maintain their permanent resident status during extended travel. |
| Green Card Holders with Employment or Family Obligations Abroad | Applicants with work assignments, education, or family matters abroad requiring absence from the U.S. for an extended period should apply to avoid abandonment of permanent residency. |
| Travelers Without a Valid Passport from Their Home Country | Individuals unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin may use a reentry permit as a travel document when returning to the United States. |
| Documents Required for Reentry Permit Application (Form I-131) | |
| Form I-131, Application for Travel Document | Completed and signed application form submitted with the required fees. |
| Proof of Permanent Resident Status | Copy of Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or other evidence of lawful permanent residence. |
| Photographs | Two passport-style photos meeting USCIS specifications. |
| Government-Issued Identification | Copy of a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or state ID card. |
| Fee Payment | Payment of the USCIS filing fee. Check the USCIS website for current fee amounts. |
| Additional Supporting Documents | Evidence justifying the extended travel, such as employment letters, medical records, or family-related documents. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Form I-131 Application
To apply for a Reentry Permit using Form I-131, gather essential documents to ensure a smooth process. This permit allows permanent residents to maintain status while traveling abroad for extended periods.
Start by completing Form I-131 accurately with personal and travel information. Include a copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) and a valid passport. Submit two recent passport-style photos following USCIS guidelines.
Comprehensive Document Checklist for Reentry Permit Application
What documents are required for a reentry permit application (Form I-131)? The comprehensive document checklist includes a completed Form I-131, a copy of your permanent resident card (green card), and evidence of your current residence. Two passport-style photos, a copy of the passport biographic page, and proof of ties to the United States are also necessary for submission.
Supporting Documents to Strengthen Your Application
Submitting a well-prepared reentry permit application requires specific documents to prove eligibility. These supporting documents provide essential evidence to USCIS during the evaluation process.
Key documents include a copy of your permanent resident card (green card) and a completed Form I-131. Additional proof such as identification, travel plans, and reasons for extended absence helps strengthen the application.
Photograph Requirements for Form I-131
The photograph requirements for Form I-131 reentry permit application specify that two identical passport-style color photos are necessary. Each photo must be 2 x 2 inches, taken within the last six months, against a plain white or off-white background. Your full face should be visible, with a neutral expression and both eyes open, following USCIS specifications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Reentry Permit Submission
Reentry Permit applications require precise documentation to ensure approval. Common mistakes often lead to delays or denials.
- Incomplete Form I-131 Submission - Ensure all sections of Form I-131 are accurately filled out without omissions.
- Missing Supporting Documents - Attach a valid copy of your Permanent Resident Card along with your photos and proof of residence.
- Incorrect Filing Fee - Include the exact filing fee as specified by USCIS to avoid rejection of your application.
What Happens After Submitting Your Reentry Permit Application?
After submitting your Reentry Permit application (Form I-131), USCIS will send a receipt notice confirming they received your documents. You must attend a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature are collected for background checks. USCIS will review the application and mail the approved Reentry Permit to your designated address.
What Documents Are Required for Reentry Permit Application (Form I-131)? Infographic
