Form I-131: Application for Travel Document

Filing Guide

I-131 covers a few different travel document types, but the most common use for pending green card applicants is advance parole — permission to leave the U.S. and be allowed back in without abandoning a pending I-485. Without it, leaving the country while I-485 is pending can be treated as abandoning your application in many cases.

Green card holders (not pending applicants) use a different part of this same form to request a re-entry permit if they need to be outside the U.S. for an extended period without risking their permanent resident status.

Required Documents

• Copy of your pending I-485 receipt notice (for advance parole) or green card (for a re-entry permit)
• Two passport-style photos
• A clear explanation of the reason and dates for travel, especially for expedited requests
• Copy of your passport

Common Mistakes

• Leaving the U.S. before the advance parole document is actually approved and in hand — a pending application is not enough
• Assuming advance parole guarantees re-entry — a border officer still makes the final admission decision
• Not accounting for real processing time before booking non-refundable travel
• Confusing advance parole (for pending applicants) with a re-entry permit (for existing green card holders) — they serve different purposes

Frequently Asked Questions

If I have advance parole, am I guaranteed to be let back into the U.S.?

No — it allows you to be considered for admission rather than being automatically barred, but a border officer still has discretion at entry.

Can I file I-131 and I-765 together with I-485?

Yes, this is extremely common and often processed together as a package.

How long is advance parole valid for?

It varies, but it's generally issued for a specific, limited period — always confirm your document's actual validity dates before traveling.

Typical Process Flow

File I-131 → Receipt notice → Biometrics (if not already on file) → Case reviewed → Document approved and mailed, or denied.