I-131

Form I-131: Application for Travel Document

Form I-131 is used by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request different types of travel documents for individuals who need to travel abroad but return to the U.S. with legal permission. Depending on the applicant’s immigration status, the I-131 can be used for reentry permits, advance parole, or refugee travel documents.

Purpose of Form I-131

The I-131 serves multiple purposes, depending on the type of travel document needed:

• Reentry Permit: Allows permanent residents (green card holders) to reenter the U.S. after being abroad for an extended period (generally up to two years). It helps maintain permanent resident status and is recommended for green card holders planning to be outside the U.S. for more than one year.

• Advance Parole: For individuals in the U.S. (e.g., those with pending adjustment of status applications or certain visa holders), advance parole allows them to return to the U.S. after traveling abroad without jeopardizing their immigration status.

• Refugee Travel Document: Issued to refugees or asylees who need to travel abroad and reenter the U.S. legally. It acts similarly to a passport for individuals under refugee or asylee status.

Who Can File Form I-131?

Form I-131 can be filed by:

1. U.S. Permanent Residents: To request a reentry permit if they intend to travel outside the U.S. for extended periods (typically more than one year).

2. Adjustment of Status Applicants: Individuals with a pending Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) can file for Advance Parole to travel internationally while their green card application is in process.

3. Asylees and Refugees: Refugees and asylees can use Form I-131 to request a Refugee Travel Document, which allows them to travel abroad and return to the U.S. without a visa.

Filing Process for Form I-131

1. Complete Form I-131

• The petitioner completes the I-131 form with personal information, travel plans, and the specific type of document they are applying for (reentry permit, advance parole, or refugee travel document).

2. Required Documentation

• Reentry Permit: Proof of permanent residency (green card) and evidence of the need for extended travel.

• Advance Parole: Evidence of a pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485) and the reason for travel.

• Refugee Travel Document: Evidence of refugee or asylee status, including a copy of the I-94 or other official documents.

• Passport-Style Photos: Two recent passport-style photos must be submitted with the application.

3. Filing Fees

• Filing fees for Form I-131 depend on the type of travel document being requested. The fees for a reentry permit and refugee travel document are currently $575, while advance parole applications may be free if filed with Form I-485. Check the USCIS fee calculator for the most up-to-date information.

4. Biometrics Appointment

• For reentry permits and refugee travel documents, applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 will be required to attend a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center to provide fingerprints, photographs, and signatures.

What Happens After Filing I-131?

1. Receipt Notice: USCIS will send a receipt notice (Form I-797), confirming that the application is being processed.

2. Biometrics Appointment (if applicable): For certain applicants, including those applying for a reentry permit or refugee travel document, a biometrics appointment will be scheduled.

3. Approval or Denial: USCIS will issue either an approval notice with the travel document or a denial, depending on eligibility and the application.

4. Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on the type of travel document requested and the applicant's circumstances. Applicants can check the current processing times on the USCIS website.

Importance of Travel Documents

• Reentry Permits: Protect permanent residents who need to remain outside the U.S. for over a year by helping them avoid abandonment of their permanent resident status.

• Advance Parole: Allows individuals with pending immigration applications to travel without voiding their adjustment of status process.

• Refugee Travel Document: Enables refugees or asylees to travel abroad and reenter the U.S. legally, acting like a passport for individuals who cannot obtain one from their home country.

Conclusion

Form I-131 is crucial for various categories of immigrants and nonimmigrants who need to travel abroad while maintaining their legal status in the U.S. Whether applying for a reentry permit, advance parole, or a refugee travel document, understanding the form's purpose and filing process is essential for ensuring lawful reentry into the U.S. after international travel.

For assistance with completing and filing Form I-131, DIY My Green Card offers guidance to help ensure your travel plans are compliant with U.S. immigration laws. Contact us for more information.