Traveling internationally when you are a non-U.S. citizen can involve a complex process, especially when it comes to obtaining the necessary Travel Permission Forms from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Understanding the correct procedures and forms is crucial to ensure your travel plans proceed smoothly. This guide focuses on Form I-131, officially known as the “Application for Travel Document,” which serves as a primary tool for various travel permission needs.
Understanding Form I-131: Your Application for Travel Documents
Form I-131 is the key application form you’ll use when seeking various types of travel documents, parole documents, and arrival/departure records from USCIS. It’s essential to use the most current version of this form to avoid rejection and processing delays. As of October 11, 2024, USCIS requires the use of the updated Form I-131 (edition date 06/17/24), which has been renamed to “Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records.” Using older versions, specifically the 04/01/24 edition, will result in rejection of your application if filed on or after this date.
What is Form I-131 Used For?
Form I-131 serves multiple purposes, allowing different categories of individuals to apply for the necessary documentation to travel internationally and return to the United States, or to request parole. Here are the main types of travel documents you can apply for using Form I-131:
- Re-entry Permit: If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) who will be spending a year or more outside the United States, a re-entry permit allows you to maintain your permanent resident status while abroad and ensures your ability to re-enter the U.S. upon your return.
- Refugee Travel Document: Refugees and asylees who need to travel internationally generally cannot use their national passports. A refugee travel document serves as a passport for these individuals, allowing them to travel outside the U.S. and return.
- TPS Travel Authorization Document (Form I-512T): Beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) who wish to travel outside the United States need to apply for travel authorization. If approved, USCIS will issue Form I-512T, Authorization for Travel by a Noncitizen to the United States. It’s important to note that USCIS no longer issues advance parole documents for TPS beneficiaries.
- Advance Parole Document (Form I-512L): In certain situations, individuals who need to travel abroad temporarily and are not in lawful permanent resident status may be eligible for advance parole. This document allows them to return to the U.S. without jeopardizing their pending application for adjustment of status or other immigration benefits. Specifically, if your initial TPS application (Form I-821) is pending, and your Form I-131 is approved for travel, USCIS will issue Form I-512L, Advance Parole Document.
- Advance Permission to Travel for CNMI Long-Term Residents: Long-term residents of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) can use Form I-131 to request advance permission to travel.
Parole and Re-Parole: Additional Uses of Form I-131
Beyond travel documents, Form I-131 is also used to apply for various types of parole:
- Initial Parole Documents: Individuals who are outside the United States may seek parole to enter the U.S. temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. This may fall under specific programs like the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program or the Family Reunification Task Force (FRTF) process.
- Parole in Place: If you are currently in the United States without having been formally admitted, you may apply for parole in place if you meet certain criteria, such as being the spouse, child, or parent of an active-duty member of the U.S. military, or for other urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, including the FRTF process.
- Re-Parole: Individuals who were previously granted parole in the United States and require an extension can apply for re-parole using Form I-131. This is relevant for individuals initially paroled under family reunification parole processes, certain Afghans, certain Ukrainians, and other specific categories. For Ukrainian citizens seeking re-parole, it is recommended to apply no earlier than 180 days before your current parole expires to avoid potential issues.
Staying Informed and Filing Your Application
Navigating the process of obtaining travel permission forms requires careful attention to detail and staying updated on USCIS guidelines. Always ensure you are using the most recent version of Form I-131, and carefully review the instructions provided by USCIS. For specific information related to your situation, such as expedite requests or emergency travel, refer to the USCIS website for detailed guidance. Understanding the purpose of Form I-131 and the different types of travel and parole documents available is the first step in ensuring your international travel plans are properly authorized.
