If you’re living in the United States and waiting for your green card, you might wonder if it’s possible to travel internationally during the process. The answer is yes—if you have a valid travel document, also known as Advance Parole. This guide will explain everything you need to know about applying for Advance Parole, using Form I-131, and ensuring your travel plans don’t jeopardize your green card application.
What Is Advance Parole?
Advance Parole is a special travel permit issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It allows individuals with pending green card applications to temporarily leave and re-enter the United States without voiding their application. Without this document, leaving the country may result in USCIS considering your green card application abandoned.
Why Is Advance Parole Important?
Without Advance Parole, leaving the United States while your green card application is pending could have serious consequences:
- Application Denial: USCIS will automatically deny your green card application if you travel without Advance Parole.
- Lost Fees and Time: You’ll need to restart the process and repay the application fees.
- Re-Entry Challenges: Returning to the U.S. without the proper documents could result in being barred from entry.
By obtaining Advance Parole, you gain peace of mind knowing you can travel internationally without these risks.
Who Should Apply for Advance Parole?
If you’re waiting for your green card and expect to travel internationally for any reason—whether it’s a family emergency, work obligation, or vacation—you should apply for Advance Parole. It’s a smart move to include the application for a travel permit when you first submit your green card forms, even if you don’t have immediate travel plans.
How to Apply for Advance Parole Using Form I-131
1. Include Form I-131 With Your Green Card Application
The easiest way to apply for Advance Parole is to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, as part of your green card application package. This way, there’s no additional fee for the travel permit.
When submitting Form I-131:
- Attach a copy of a photo ID (such as your passport).
- Include two passport-sized photos.
- Place the completed Form I-131 at the front of your application package.
2. Applying After Filing Your Green Card Application
If you’ve already submitted your green card application, you can still file Form I-131 separately. In this case, you’ll need:
- A copy of your photo ID.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- A copy of the receipt notice (Form I-797C) from your pending green card application.
- Payment of the $630 filing fee (if applicable).
Processing Times for Advance Parole
The processing time for a travel document typically ranges from 5 to 24 months, depending on your USCIS service center. While waiting, it’s important not to leave the U.S. until your Advance Parole is approved and you receive the physical document.
Validity and Renewal of Advance Parole
How Long Is Advance Parole Valid?
An Advance Parole document is typically valid for one year. If you need to travel after that year, you’ll need to renew your travel permit.
How to Renew Advance Parole
Renewal applications can be submitted as early as 120 days before the expiration date. To renew, you must file Form I-131 again, including:
- A copy of your current travel document.
- A copy of your green card application receipt notice.
- Two passport-sized photos.
What Happens If Your Advance Parole Expires?
If your Advance Parole expires while you’re outside the U.S., re-entering the country may be difficult. It’s crucial to ensure your travel plans align with the validity of your document to avoid complications.
Emergencies and Expedited Advance Parole
If you need to travel urgently due to a family emergency or similar situation, you may request expedited processing. To do this, you must:
- Complete Form I-131.
- Include two passport-sized photos.
- Provide evidence of the emergency, such as a death certificate or medical records.
Visit your local USCIS office to request an emergency travel document.
Travel Restrictions
While Advance Parole allows you to travel abroad, there are limitations:
- Stay Within Validity Period: You must return to the U.S. before the expiration date on your travel document.
- Attend Green Card Appointments: You cannot miss scheduled fingerprinting or green card interview appointments.
Common FAQs About Advance Parole
Do I Need a Travel Permit?
Yes, if you have a pending green card application and plan to travel internationally. Leaving the U.S. without a travel document will result in your application being abandoned.
Does Advance Parole Guarantee Re-Entry?
No, Advance Parole doesn’t guarantee entry into the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry have the final say on whether to admit you.
Can I Work With Advance Parole?
Advance Parole itself doesn’t grant work authorization. However, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while waiting for your green card.
How Law and Visas Can Help
Navigating U.S. immigration can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Law and Visas, we offer:
- Expert guidance on completing Form I-131 and other green card forms.
- Unlimited support to ensure your application is accurate and complete.
- Ongoing updates about your application status.
Starting at just $649, Law and Visas can help you achieve your immigration goals with confidence and ease.
Plan Ahead and Travel Confidently
Advance Parole is an essential tool for anyone navigating the green card process while managing international travel. By applying for a travel document early and planning your trips carefully, you can avoid unnecessary delays or complications. With Law and Visas by your side, you can focus on what matters most—building your future in the U.S.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to start your application!
