Form I-131 How to Apply For a Travel Document 2020

Advance Parole

While this document is usually among the easiest to complete, it has some underlying attachments.

On the face of it, it is supposed to allow you re-entry into the U.S. However, if you have some immigration issues, you might still be denied entry upon your return.

There are other conditions, as well. For example, if you had applied for an adjustment of status, then reentered the U.S. using a visa, instead of an advanced parole document, your petition can be considered as abandoned.

The same applies for when you leave the U.S. and reenter on a non-immigrant visa. H-1 and L-1 visas are, however, exempt from this rule.

Going by this, it’s clear why it’s advisable to have an immigration attorney help you through this process whenever you intend to travel abroad. Any oversights on your part and you could jeopardize your status.

Re-entry Permit

This is required if you have permanent residency in the U.S., but intend to spend a significant amount of time outside the U.S. before returning.

In this case, this form can be used to apply for a re-entry permit.

If you will be away from under a year, you can use your green card to reenter the U.S. If your stay away longer than this without a re-entry permit, then you will be deemed to have abandoned your green card.

This document is typically valid for two years following a successful application.

Refugee Travel Document

For refugees and asylum seekers seeking to travel abroad and return to the U.S., a refugee travel document is a necessity.

This document is also used in place of a passport and is usually granted for a period of one year.

The document must be applied for while you are within the U.S. and is valid for a year. You can travel outside the U.S. multiple times until the document expires.

If you leave without the I-131, you risk being barred from reentering the country and having your status application nullified by an immigration judge.