Travel Documents & Advance Parole
Application for Travel Document (Form I-131) in Columbus, Ohio
What is Form I-131?
Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is a USCIS form used to apply for travel authorization when standard passport travel is not available or sufficient. This form covers three distinct types of travel documents, each serving a different immigration situation. At Asal Multi Services in Columbus, Ohio, we help clients prepare their I-131 applications accurately and efficiently.
Three Types of Travel Documents
- Reentry Permit: For lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who need to remain outside the United States for more than one year but less than two years. Without a reentry permit, extended absence may be seen as abandonment of permanent residence.
- Refugee Travel Document: For refugees and asylees who need to travel internationally. This document allows you to return to the United States after traveling abroad without needing a new visa.
- Advance Parole: For individuals with a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) application who need to travel outside the U.S. while their green card application is being processed. Traveling without advance parole may result in your I-485 being denied.
When You Need Form I-131
You should file Form I-131 if any of these situations apply:
- You are a permanent resident planning to be outside the U.S. for more than one year
- You are a refugee or asylee who needs to travel internationally
- You have a pending I-485 adjustment of status case and need to travel abroad
- You are a DACA recipient needing advance parole for educational, employment, or humanitarian purposes
- You are a TPS holder needing to travel outside the United States
Required Documents
- Valid passport (or explanation if unavailable)
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Copy of green card (for reentry permit)
- I-485 receipt notice (for advance parole)
- Refugee or asylee documentation (for refugee travel document)
- Two passport-style photographs
- Evidence of reason for travel (itinerary, invitation letters, medical records)
Step-by-Step Filing Process
- Determine the correct document type based on your immigration status and travel needs
- Complete Form I-131 with accurate personal information and travel details
- Gather supporting documents including photos, identification, and status documentation
- Submit the application to the appropriate USCIS service center or file online
- Attend biometrics appointment if required by USCIS
- Receive your travel document by mail once approved
Important Warnings
- Do not travel before receiving your approved document. Leaving the U.S. without advance parole while an I-485 is pending may result in denial of your green card application.
- Refugees and asylees should not return to their home country even with a refugee travel document, as this may jeopardize your asylum status.
- Reentry permits are not renewable abroad. You must be physically present in the U.S. when you file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a reentry permit and advance parole?
A reentry permit is for lawful permanent residents who plan to be outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years. Advance parole is for individuals with a pending adjustment of status (I-485) who need to travel internationally while their green card application is being processed.
What happens if I travel without advance parole while my I-485 is pending?
If you leave the United States without an approved advance parole document while your I-485 is pending, USCIS may consider your application abandoned. This means your green card case could be denied. Always obtain advance parole before traveling.
How long does I-131 processing take?
Processing times vary. Advance parole applications typically take 3-6 months. Reentry permits may take 8-14 months. USCIS processing times change frequently, so check the USCIS website for current estimates.
Can I file I-131 together with my I-485?
Yes. If you are filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you can file Form I-131 concurrently at no additional cost. The advance parole application is included with the I-485 filing fee.
Important Notice
Asal Multi Services is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, legal representation, or interpretation of immigration law. Services are limited to administrative assistance, document preparation, and guidance in accordance with publicly available government instructions.
Need Help With Your I-131 Application?
Asal Multi Services in Columbus, Ohio helps prepare Form I-131 applications for advance parole, reentry permits, and refugee travel documents. We speak English, Somali, and Arabic. Call us today or visit our office at 3185 Morse Rd, Ste 15, Columbus, OH 43231.