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Travel documents for foreign citizens returning to the U.S.

If you are a citizen of another country and have been living in the U.S., you may need special documents if you leave the U.S. and then return.

Travel documents for permanent and conditional permanent residents

If you are outside the u.s. for less than one year.

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been away from the U.S. for less than one year, you will only need to show your Green Card upon re-entry to the U.S.

If you are outside the U.S. for one year or longer

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been outside the U.S. for one year or longer, apply for a re-entry permit before you travel. Use Form I-131 - Application for Travel Document .

• For permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years from the date of issue.
• For conditional permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years after the date of issue. Or it is valid up until the date you must apply for removal of the conditions on your status , whichever date comes first.

Travel documents for other foreign citizens living in the U.S.

If you are a foreign citizen re-entering the U.S., the documentation you need may depend on your immigration status:

• Advance parole - You may use advance parole to re-enter the U.S. without applying for a visa. It is commonly used for re-entry by people in the process of applying for permanent residence, applying for a status adjustment, or applying for asylum.
• Refugee travel document - You may be able to use this document to re-enter the U.S. if you have refugee or asylum status.

If you need help, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) .

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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USCIS I-131A Application for Travel Document Fee

Before you start the payment process, eligibility.

Anyone can pay the I-131A filing fee from anywhere in the world. Whoever pays the fee must use a credit or debit card or U.S. bank account.

The current filing fee is $575.00

You must submit your filing fee before going to a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate to file your Form I-131A. You must bring evidence of payment with you when you appear in person at your nearest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate to file Form I-131A.

Refund Policy

USCIS does not refund fees, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition or request, or how long USCIS takes to reach a decision.

By continuing this transaction, you acknowledge that you must submit fees in the exact amount and that you are paying the fees for a government service.

Please refer to the instructions for the form(s) you are filing for additional information or you may call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) 800-767-1833.

Information You May Need

To pay the fee, you will need the correct first and last names, date of birth, and A-Number as they appear on the lawful permanent resident's (LPR's) Green Card or Reentry Permit.

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Application for Travel Document: Form I-131 Explained

How to apply for advance parole.

If you’re waiting to be issued a green card or you have an active case with immigration, USCIS doesn’t want you to leave the country without advance permission. 

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, allows people with pending cases to obtain permission to travel outside of the country temporarily. This is what you should know about how, when, and why to use form I-131.

What Is Form I-131?

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document is used to apply for an advance parole document. Advance parole allows people who are not permanent residents or U.S. citizens to leave and re-enter the United States under specific circumstances for a limited amount of time. 

The word “parole” is often associated with a criminal being let out of prison before they’ve completed their term. In immigration, the term “parole” means something different . You aren’t in trouble, and you certainly aren’t regarded as a criminal. The term as used by immigration means that you’ve received special permission to travel while your application is pending and you are “paroled” into the U.S. to continue the application process. 

If you are not yet a permanent resident or a citizen, you may need an approved Form I-131 before you can depart the country without jeopardizing your immigration status or ongoing applications with USCIS. 

Leaving the country without obtaining a travel document could be interpreted as abandoning your USCIS case. A travel document shows intent to return to the United States.

Who Needs Form I-131?

If you have a pending application with USCIS for asylum or adjustment of status, you aren’t allowed to leave the country. This would result in your application being deemed abandoned. 

If you encounter a situation where you need to briefly leave the country (like to complete the sale of your old home, visit a sick family member, or attend the wedding of a loved one), you need permission from USCIS to travel. 

A travel document will give you permission to come and go before you become a permanent resident or asylee of the United States. Once you receive permanent resident status, you’ll no longer need a travel document for trips outside of the United States shorter than 12 months. If you become a citizen, you won’t need a travel document for any trips outside of the United States, regardless of their duration. 

Form I-131 can also be used to apply for a re-entry permit, which can allow permanent residents to remain outside the United States for a year or more.

How Do You Use Form I-131 for a Re-Entry Permit?

USCIS wants you to file Form I-131 before you leave the country. If you’re a lawful permanent resident of the United States, they want you to travel for less than one year at a time. If you’re a permanent resident who stayed outside of the United States for one year or more without a travel document, you may need to take a few extra steps before you return. 

If you’ve been gone for more than twelve months, you’ll likely be taken aside at the airport for secondary inspection by the Department of Homeland Security . Immigration officials can claim that you attempted to abandon your permanent resident status and attempt to have it revoked, which will lead to a lengthy legal battle. You may be placed into removal proceedings and ultimately returned to your country of origin if you cannot establish you did not intend to abandon your residence.

If you had a legitimate reason for staying outside of the United States for a year or more, you can apply for a returning resident visa. Consular officials will consider situations like serious illness or injury to you or a family member to be a pressing circumstance. They no longer consider COVID-related claims. 

After viewing your case, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate may issue you a returning resident visa. A returning resident visa will allow you to enter the United States with minimal risk to your resident status. 

The best course of action if you need to remain outside the U.S. for a year or more is to apply for a re-entry permit before departing the U.S. This shows your that you do not intend to abandon your lawful permanent residence.

What Happens If You Leave the United States Without an Approved Form I-131 Travel Document?

If you leave the United States without completing Form I-131 and receiving a travel document while you have a case pending with USCIS, they will deny your case. If you leave the United States while your case is still pending, USCIS considers your departure as abandonment of your case. 

Can You Leave the United States Before You Receive Your Travel Document?

You’re technically allowed to leave the United States before you receive your travel document if your Form I-131 has been reviewed and approved. However, it is always best to have the actual advance parole document on hand before leaving the country. 

Can You Get an Emergency Travel Document With Form I-131?

USCIS is willing to consider emergency processing of many documents on a case-by-case basis. If you’re dealing with an urgent situation, like the death or severe illness of a family member overseas, you can request an emergency appointment with USCIS regarding your travel paperwork. 

You’ll need to arrive at your appointment with your passport and passport photos, completed I-131 travel document forms, and proof of an emergency. You can have your family member’s doctor write an official letter declaring the situation to be an emergency and present that letter as evidence. 

USCIS may be able to issue you an emergency travel document that will allow you to return home right away. They won’t charge you an expedited processing fee for a legitimate emergency. 

Is It Safe To Travel With a Pending Immigration Case?

USCIS would prefer that you didn’t leave the country while your immigration case is pending, even if your application for a travel document was approved. If you miss vital communication with USCIS, like an interview appointment or a request for more information, your immigration case can be denied. 

If you intend to travel while your immigration case is still in progress, it’s vital to check the USCIS website for updates on your case frequently . Ask someone you trust to check your mail for you every day and inform you of correspondences relating to your immigration case. If the phone number you have on file with USCIS can’t be used to reach you while you’re away, update your contact information before you leave. Be prepared to return if USCIS needs you to come back.

When Should You Complete and File Form I-131 to Request Advance Parole?

It’s important to apply for a travel document a few months before you’ll need it. You aren’t allowed to leave the country on advance parole until you’ve been approved and received your travel document. If you leave without an approved travel document, you may not be able to re-enter the United States. 

USCIS estimates the wait time for a travel document to be approximately 90 days, but USCIS perpetually manages a large backlog of cases. It often takes them a while longer to process documents that aren’t considered to be emergency cases. It may take them up to 150 days to issue you a travel document, so you should plan accordingly. You should apply for a travel document even if there’s a chance that your green card may be approved by the time you need to leave the country. 

Life can be unpredictable. You have no way of knowing if an emergency may pull you back home before you’ve received your green card. If you have any strong ties to a country other than the United States, you can file form I-131 at the same time you file the forms for your green card. It’s better to have a travel document and not need it than it is to need a travel document and not have it. You’ll be able to leave at a moment’s notice if you have a valid travel document.

How Long Does a Travel Document Last?

Travel documents may be issued for up to five years from the issue date. You need to return to the United States before the expiration date on your advance parole docuement. You’re allowed to return to the United States and leave again as long as you return before your travel document expires.

If you believe you’ll need to stay outside the United States for longer than the validity, you must return and request another travel document. Your green card will likely be issued before your travel document expires. If that’s the case, return to the United States temporarily to retrieve your official green card. Once you have your green card, you’re free to travel outside of the United States for a maximum of one continuous year. 

If you intend to apply for citizenship , keep in mind that the residency requirement states that you must live primarily in the United States for at least five continuous years before applying or three continuous years if you received your green card through marriage. 

Traveling too frequently or spending too much time outside of the United States may interfere with your ability to apply for citizenship. It’s okay to visit your family back home for a few weeks every year, but be mindful of lengthy visits.

Can You File for a Travel Document Extension?

There is no process for extending a travel document that already exists. If you have a travel document that’s about to expire and need more time, you must return to the United States and file a new Form I-131. Processing times and fees aren’t different if you’re filing for a new travel document. 

The process will work the same exact way as it did the first time, and the waiting period will depend on USCIS’s current caseload. You’ll want to plan accordingly if you think you’ll need to be out of the country after your travel document’s expiration date. Because the waiting period can be several months long, it’s better to cautiously return to the United States and reapply for a travel document before your current travel document expires. 

Can Filing a Form I-131 Prevent You From Being Detained When You Return?

CBP may detain people with pending immigration cases when they re-enter the country, as well as lawful permanent residents who have been outside of the United States for a long period of time. 

Filing Form I-131 won’t prevent you from being pulled aside when you arrive in the United States. Border protection officers want to verify your travel documents and your pending case with immigration before allowing you to pass. It may be an intimidating situation, but there’s typically no reason to worry. If you’ve attended every immigration appointment and responded every time they contacted you, you’ll typically be allowed to re-enter the United States.

If you missed important calls, letters, or appointments while you were gone, you may not be allowed to re-enter. You’re expected to manage your side of your immigration case even if you’re traveling with a valid travel document. Always be mindful of important dates and letters USCIS may send. Ask a trusted person to check your mail in the United States while you’re away.

Do You Need Legal Assistance With Form I-131?

Knowing how and when to file Form I-131 and understanding the rules around traveling with an active green card application is crucial for immigrants who need to leave the United States. The experienced team of immigration attorneys at Cohen, Tucker + Ades may be able to help you navigate the situation.

Contact us for a consultation to review the details of your immigration case. We’ll be able to advise you of your options.

The Use of Parole Under Immigration Law | American Immigration Council

What is Secondary Inspection? | Study in the States | U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Emergency Travel | USCIS

How to check your immigration case status | USAGov

Not sure which option is right for you? Request a confidential consultation today.

Everything You Need To Know About TPS Travel Authorization and How To Apply for It

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration status granted to people in the U.S. who come from certain countries they can’t return to. If you have TPS or have applied for TPS and you want to travel outside of the United States, you need to apply for travel authorization. Getting travel authorization allows you to return to the U.S. after leaving without having your immigration status revoked. Applying for travel authorization can take up to five months, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Written by ImmigrationHelp Team .  Updated August 15, 2022

What Is TPS? 

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration designation. It allows individuals to work and live in the United States regardless of their immigration status. But this special status only applies when it would be unsafe for them to return to their home country. With TPS, a person doesn’t have to worry about getting detained or deported even if they overstay an immigrant visa or are an undocumented immigrant. 

Only those who have come from countries that qualify for TPS are eligible to receive it. There are currently 15 designated countries that have Temporary Protected Status, including:

Afghanistan

Burma (Myanmar)

El Salvador

South Sudan

This list of Temporary Protected Status countries is subject to change. To confirm the current countries on the list, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) Temporary Protected Status website .

How Does a Country Receive Protected Status? 

The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can designate a country for TPS if certain temporary conditions make it difficult and/or dangerous for individuals from that country to return. These conditions include:

An ongoing armed conflict, like civil war; 

A natural disaster, such as a disease outbreak or earthquake; or

Another type of temporary and extraordinary condition that makes it dangerous for someone to return home.

In addition to staying in the United States without risk of removal, beneficiaries of TPS are also eligible to apply for work authorization , like receiving a work permit or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

As beneficial as TPS is, it has a few limitations. Unlike those who receive asylum status , TPS recipients don’t have a pathway to lawful permanent residency with an adjustment of status.

Also, if you have TPS, you can’t automatically return to the United States if you leave. You can travel to and from the United States, but you first need to apply for travel authorization. This is called Advance Parole.

What Is Advance Parole? 

Despite its name, Advance Parole has nothing to do with the criminal justice system. Rather, it’s a type of travel authorization that allows certain immigrants to return to the United States after traveling abroad. Without Advance Parole, immigrants who leave the United States while their immigration application or status is still pending may:

Have their immigration status revoked

Have any pending applications denied

Be barred from re-entry to the United States

Generally speaking, if someone is eligible for TPS, they’re also eligible for Advance Parole or a TPS travel authorization document. This means if you apply for TPS, you can apply for Advance Parole at the same time. In other words, you don’t have to wait until your TPS application is approved before applying for Advance Parole.

How Can Someone With TPS Apply for Travel Authorization? 

You can get permission to travel through either Advance Parole or TPS travel authorization. Either method requires you to complete Form I-131 . It costs $575 to file this form, and the USCIS normally takes about three months to process it.

Applicants most often submit Form I-131 to the USCIS by mail. The address you mail your completed form to depends on who you are and what other immigration relief or benefits you’re requesting. 

For example, if you’re filing Form I-131 along with Form I-821 (the form you use to apply for TPS), you’ll send your Form I-131 to the address assigned to your country. If your Form I-821 has already been approved or you’re requesting Advance Parole with Form I-821 that’s pending approval, then you’ll send your Form I-131 to one of two addresses. If using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), you’ll send it to:

Attn: I-131 TPS

P.O. Box 660167

Dallas, TX 75266-0867

If you want to send Form I-131 via UPS, DHL, or FedEx, then you’ll use this address instead:

2501 S. State Hwy. 121 Business

Lewisville, TX 75067

When completing Form I-131, you don’t need to give a reason for your request if you’re already on TPS and applying for Advance Parole. However, you do need to give a reason if you have a different immigration status, such as DACA or a green card.

How To Get Updates on the Status of Your Travel Authorization Request

If you want to receive progress updates via email or text notifications, you can submit Form G-1145 along with your I-131 application. The USCIS will send you an e-Notification within one day of accepting your application. This e-Notification also has a receipt number that you can use to get further application status updates as it’s processed.

Tips for Filling Out Form 1-131

To ensure the proper and efficient processing of your Form I-131 application, there are several tips to keep in mind. One of the biggest is to make sure you sign all the necessary places. 

Another important tip is to complete the form on a computer, if at all possible. This ensures you’re using the correct version of the form and allows you to easily correct any mistakes before printing out your completed form and mailing it off.

If you make a mistake on a paper form, you’ll have to start all over. This is because USCIS’s electronic scanners can’t process forms containing portions covered up with correction tape or fluid. The USCIS has a form filing tips page with more advice on completing its forms.

What Limitations Are There for Someone With TPS Traveling on Advance Parole?

If you have TPS or are applying for TPS, you shouldn’t travel outside the United States unless you first receive travel authorization. If you don’t have travel authorization, you may be unable to reenter the U.S.

In certain situations, it could take more than a year to approve your travel authorization. So the moment you know you’ll need to go overseas or think there’s a chance you may have to, it’s best to begin the travel authorization application process. If you want to have a rough idea of how long the USCIS might take to process your Form I-131, you can use the USCIS’s processing times online tool .

Another limitation is the length of time you can be outside the United States. The exact length of time can vary, but in most cases, the maximum amount of time you can expect to stay out of the United States and still return is one year. You may be able to extend this time by applying for a second Advance Parole while traveling with an approved Advance Parole that’s still valid. Just make sure you return to the United States before your designated period of Advance Parole expires.

Finally, if your TPS application is pending and you leave the country, you may miss important notifications about your application. It might also be difficult to schedule appointments like a biometrics appointment .

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What is a Travel Document? A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Travel Documents

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

A travel document is an official document issued by a government that enables a person to travel internationally. It can be a passport, visa, refugee travel document, alien registration card, certificate of identity, or an emergency travel document. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive guide to different types of travel documents and how to obtain them.

Explaining the Basics of Travel Documents

Before we dive into the specifics of different types of travel documents, let’s take a look at the basics.

What is a Travel Document?

A travel document is an official document issued by a government that enables a person to travel internationally. It can be a passport, visa, refugee travel document, alien registration card, certificate of identity, or an emergency travel document. Each type of travel document has its own set of requirements and restrictions and must be obtained through the proper channels.

Different Types of Travel Documents

Each type of travel document serves a different purpose and has its own set of requirements and restrictions. Passports are used to identify citizens of a country when travelling abroad. Visas are required for entry into certain countries and often come with restrictions on length of stay and activities allowed. Refugee travel documents are issued to refugees and stateless persons who are unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin. Alien registration cards are issued to non-citizens living in a country and are required for travel outside the country. Certificates of identity are issued to stateless persons and those who cannot obtain a passport from their country of origin. Emergency travel documents are issued to those needing immediate travel outside of their home country and are usually valid for a short period of time.

Necessary Documentation for Travel

Depending on the destination and type of travel, there may be additional documentation required in addition to a valid travel document. This could include vaccination records, proof of health insurance, proof of financial stability, and more. It is important to check with the relevant authorities before travelling to ensure all necessary documentation is obtained.

A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Travel Documents

Now that we have covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at each type of travel document and how to obtain them.

A passport is an official document issued by a government that identifies a person as a citizen of that country and allows them to travel to other countries. Passports are typically valid for 5 to 10 years and must be renewed after that time. In order to obtain a passport, applicants must submit proof of citizenship, a completed application form, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee.

A visa is an official document issued by a government that allows a person to enter a country for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, or work. Depending on the type of visa, it may be valid for a few days up to several years. In order to obtain a visa, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and the appropriate fee.

Refugee Travel Document

A refugee travel document is an official document issued by a government that allows refugees and stateless persons to travel internationally. Refugee travel documents are typically valid for one year and must be renewed after that time. In order to obtain a refugee travel document, applicants must submit proof of refugee status, a completed application form, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee.

Alien Registration Card

An alien registration card, also known as a green card, is an official document issued by a government that identifies a person as a non-citizen living in a country and allows them to travel outside the country. Alien registration cards are typically valid for 10 years and must be renewed after that time. In order to obtain an alien registration card, applicants must submit proof of legal residence, a completed application form, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee.

Certificate of Identity

A certificate of identity is an official document issued by a government that identifies a person as a stateless person or someone who is unable to obtain a passport from their country of origin. Certificates of identity are typically valid for one year and must be renewed after that time. In order to obtain a certificate of identity, applicants must submit proof of statelessness or inability to obtain a passport, a completed application form, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee.

Emergency Travel Document

An emergency travel document is an official document issued by a government that allows a person to travel outside their home country in an emergency situation. Emergency travel documents are typically valid for a short period of time and must be renewed after that time. In order to obtain an emergency travel document, applicants must submit proof of the emergency situation, a completed application form, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee.

How to Obtain a Travel Document

Obtaining a travel document requires submitting the necessary paperwork and fees to the relevant government agency. The exact process varies depending on the type of travel document being applied for.

Applying for a Passport

In order to apply for a passport, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of citizenship, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the passport will be issued within a few weeks.

Applying for a Visa

In order to apply for a visa, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued within a few weeks.

Applying for a Refugee Travel Document

In order to apply for a refugee travel document, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of refugee status, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the refugee travel document will be issued within a few weeks.

Applying for an Alien Registration Card

In order to apply for an alien registration card, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of legal residence, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the alien registration card will be issued within a few weeks.

Applying for a Certificate of Identity

In order to apply for a certificate of identity, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of statelessness or inability to obtain a passport, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the certificate of identity will be issued within a few weeks.

Applying for an Emergency Travel Document

In order to apply for an emergency travel document, applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of the emergency situation, two passport photos, and the appropriate fee. Depending on the country, applications can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. Once the application is approved, the emergency travel document will be issued within a few days.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Having a Travel Document

Having a valid travel document can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on the situation. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of having a travel document.

Having a valid travel document makes it easier to travel internationally, as it is accepted as proof of identity and nationality at border crossings. Additionally, having a valid travel document can help protect against identity theft, as it contains biometric data that can be used to verify a person’s identity.

Disadvantages

Having a valid travel document can also make it easier for governments to track a person’s movements, which can be seen as a privacy concern. Additionally, depending on the type of travel document, there may be restrictions on the countries a person is able to visit or the length of stay in those countries.

What to Do if You Lose Your Travel Document

If a person loses their travel document, they should immediately contact the relevant government agency to report the loss and apply for a replacement. Depending on the country, applications for replacement travel documents can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. It is important to note that the process for obtaining a replacement travel document can take several weeks.

Understanding the Regulations Surrounding International Travel Documents

In addition to understanding the different types of travel documents and how to obtain them, it is important to understand the regulations surrounding international travel. This includes understanding the visa requirements of the country being visited, as well as any customs regulations that may be applicable.

Most countries require foreign visitors to obtain a visa prior to entry. It is important to research the visa requirements of the country being visited before travelling to ensure the necessary paperwork is obtained.

It is also important to familiarize oneself with the customs regulations of the country being visited. This includes knowing what items are prohibited and what items may be subject to additional taxes or duties upon entry.

Travel documents are an essential part of international travel. It is important to understand the different types of travel documents and how to obtain them, as well as the regulations surrounding international travel. With the right information and preparation, travelling abroad can be a rewarding experience.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Smart Preparation: Securing Your Family's Travel Documents Ahead of Time

S etting foot in a new country is like stepping into a world of possibilities, but that first step can quickly turn into a stumble if you’re not prepared with the right paperwork. Securing travel documents is often viewed as one of the less glamorous parts of traveling, yet it’s crucial. 

Whether you need to renew your passport, ensure your visa is approved, or safeguard copies of your important documents, taking care of these essentials well in advance can mean the difference between a smooth airport experience and a trip derailed before it even begins. 

How to Secure the Documents You Need Before Traveling 

Going on a journey soon? Take a moment to dive into the indispensable task of securing your essential travel documents, ensuring nothing holds you back from exploring the globe with ease.

Step 1: Know What Documents You Need Before Traveling

The documents you’ll need to travel will depend on where you’re going. As part of your preparation, you’ll need to check out the official government website for a full list of the documents you’re required to obtain. Your home country can also give you a rough list of what you may need across the border. For example, the U.S. has a Traveler’s Checklist you can use.

With that said, most countries require very similar documentation. For example, you’ll always need a passport and photo I.D. to even board the plane to another country.

Here’s a list of what you’ll likely need before your travel

• Photo ID: Usually a driver’s license or a personal identification card. 
• Passport: Required to travel across the border of your home country.
• Travel or Work Visa: Required if you’re working or staying for a long period of time.
• International Driving Permit: Necessary if you plan on driving in another country.
• Medications and Vaccine Information: May be required for some countries. 
• Consent for Travel with Minors : Some countries require custody documents.
• Travel Insurance Plan Details: Peace of mind if you get injured in another country.
• Travel Itinerary Details: Peace of mind if you can’t access this info electronically. 

This process can be expedited if you use technology. If you have access to a computer, either from your home or via the library, use it to print a list of what you need. And if you’re traveling abroad with children , make sure they also have most of the documents listed above.

Step 2: Check Requirements For Documentation Early

When you’re planning a trip , especially abroad, it’s vital to start sorting out your travel documents as early as possible. According to the U.S. Department of State , about 24 million passports were issued in 2023 alone, and this number rises yearly. This means there could be lengthy processing times, sometimes up to eight weeks for standard applications!

Depending on your needs, you may need to have your documents translated. Fortunately, looking for a document translation service is easy if you search online, but this process can add a lot of time to your schedule. Factor this time in for every document you plan to get. 

You should also consider the time it takes to get your documents online vs. in person or if you have the option to complete a process online at all. For example, most countries allow you to renew your passport online, but you have to go to a government office to get a new one.

If a picture is required, consider how long it will take you to wait in line to get your photo taken. Typically, booking an appointment means you’ll get seen sooner. With most documents, you can expedite the process if you pay a fee, but it’s much cheaper to complete the process ASAP.

Step 3: Speak to the Non-Government Bodies First

Certain requirements make it necessary for you to collaborate with a partner/ex-partner, medical professional, friend/family member, or employer. If it’s possible for you to complete some of the process without their help but not all of it, don’t continue the process until you have them on board. Otherwise, you may hit a roadblock or be unable to submit your documents.

Not only that, but you’ll typically need to plan your schedule around when they can see you. For example, if you need a friend to sign a paper or a doctor to give you a vaccine or medication.

Here are some examples of documents that require help from a non-government body:

• Passport: A new passport requires multiple guarantors and their signatures.
• Work Visa: Requires your employer to start the visa process.
• Medication or Vaccine Information: Requires documentation from a doctor.
• Travel Insurance: May require permission from ex-spouse or spouse if for a child.
• Consent for Travel with Minors: Requires permission from ex-spouse or spouse.

If you’re a single parent who requires a Letter of Parental Consent for a Minor Child to Travel , be sure to speak to your ex-spouse or spouse months ahead of the travel date, if possible. 

Step 4: Ensure Your Children’s Documents are Valid

Even if your documents allow you to get past the border, you won’t be going anywhere if your children’s documents aren’t up-to-date. Did you know that children’s passports are only valid for 5 years , as opposed to the 10 years granted to adult passports? This means it’s pretty easy to lose track of their expiration dates amidst the chaos of parenting.

Statistics show that families make up a significant portion of travelers, with a notable 30.8% of travelers taking their outbound vacations as a family . That’s a lot of kids on planes and across borders! Just like adults, every child needs appropriate documentation when traveling abroad. 

This includes accurately dated passports and any requisite visas. Keep in mind that some countries have specific stipulations concerning minors, such as requiring birth certificates or visa requirements different from those of their accompanying adults.

Moreover, if your child is traveling with one parent or without either parent, additional paperwork might be needed. This could mean notarized permission from the absent parent(s), which demonstrates consent for the child’s travel itinerary. Get our free minor travel consent form here.

Step 5: Make Copies of Important Documents

Imagine being in a foreign country and realizing your passport has gone missing. A staggering number of travelers find themselves in similar situations, with about 300,000 U.S. passports reported lost or stolen each year . This alone should serve as a cautionary tale.

Before embarking on your journey, take the proactive step to photocopy each critical travel document you’ll be carrying. This includes not just passports but also driver’s licenses, visas, and birth certificates—basically anything that would prove to be a nightmare if lost.

But don’t stop at physical copies. Scan these documents and upload them onto a cloud service or email them to yourself. It’s recommended by travel experts to have an electronic backup ready for access anywhere with internet connectivity. Around 70% of international travelers now “always” carry smartphones when traveling , which can store these valuable digital copies safely. I like to store mine on both an iCloud folder and Google Drive folder.

Keep one set of physical copies on your person (separate from the originals), and stash another set somewhere safe, like in your hotel room. As an extra layer of preparedness, leave a third set with someone trustworthy back home, too—just in case the worst happens.

Don’t Be Caught Unprepared When Traveling 

When it comes to what travel documents does my family need for an international trip, get a jump start on organizing those essential items today and turn the focus back to the excitement of planning your journey. Remember, with every passport photo snapped and visa stamped, you’re one step closer to creating lasting memories in far-flung destinations. 

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog , Skyscanner , and  WayAway.com .
• Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia  or  Kayak
• Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• Take the scenic route and rent an RV from  RVShare
• Get packed for an  epic road trip  and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com .
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with  Hotels.com  or  booking.com.
• For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot .
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from  Away and Eagle Creek .
• For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher .
• Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
• For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
• CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
• Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
• Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
• Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
• Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours .
• Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App .
• We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my  travel resources page  for more trusted partners.

For more family travel inspiration, check out our latest posts here:

• Smart Preparation: Securing Your Family’s Travel Documents Ahead of Time
• Discovering Coastal Charm: Your Family’s Guide to Exploring the Oregon Coast
• How to Best Prepare for a Cross-Country Road Trip with Your Family
• More Family Fun For Less with OKC Venture Pass ($5 off coupon)
• Discovering the Badlands with Teens: Ultimate Family Travel Guide
• 6 Staycation Ideas for Families to Explore at Home

The post Smart Preparation: Securing Your Family’s Travel Documents Ahead of Time appeared first on Little Family Adventure .

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About the process

Refugee travel document and certificate of identity services are now available

Find out how to apply for regular or urgent service.

If you already applied and now need a travel document urgently, contact us .

Tell us if your travel document application is now urgent

Fill out our web form :

• Under Type of application/enquiry, select Certificate of Identity/Refugee Travel Document
• include your travel date
• include the reason you need the travel document

Service standards

See  how long it may take us to process your application  under normal circumstances.

There are 2 types of travel documents non-Canadians can use when travelling:

• refugee travel document
• certificate of identity

The application form is the same for both types of travel documents.

They’re issued to

• Convention refugees
• protected persons
• stateless persons
• permanent residents of Canada in special circumstances

The issuing office decides how long your travel document is valid for.

You cannot use these travel documents to go to your country of citizenship.

You should contact the embassy of the country you plan to visit (opens in a new tab) to check if your travel document will be accepted.

• Next: Who can apply

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• Visas and immigration
• Seek protection or asylum

Apply for a Home Office travel document

How to apply, before you apply.

If you have less than 6 months’ permission to stay in the UK (known as ‘leave to remain’), you need to extend it before you apply for a travel document.

If you have a biometric residence permit ( BRP ) , make sure it has not expired and all the details are correct before you apply for a travel document.

You’ll need to:

• apply for a replacement BRP if yours has expired
• contact the team that issued your BRP if your details are not correct (their contact information will be on your letter or email notification)

The type of travel document you can apply for depends on what kind of permission to stay you have - for example, if you have refugee status or are recognised as stateless.

You can find what kind of permission to stay you have on your BRP or your Home Office decision letter.

If you apply for the wrong type of travel document, your application will be refused and you will not get a refund. You’ll have to submit a new application and pay the fee if you want to apply again.

To apply for a travel document you need to:

• complete the online form
• send supporting documents by post

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

• do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
• do not have internet access

You cannot get immigration advice through this service.

Send supporting documents by post

You’ll be told in the online application:

• which documents to send
• where to send them

You’ll need to send original documents.

Do not send your BRP - you’ll need to keep this as proof of identity.

Do not send any documents you have not been told to send. They will not be returned.

If you urgently need a travel document for compassionate reasons

You’ll need to send additional supporting evidence by email if you urgently need a travel document for compassionate reasons.

Compassionate reasons for travelling include:

• you are seriously ill
• a family member or friend is seriously ill or has died
• you - or someone you care for - need to travel abroad for medical treatment that is not available in the UK and cannot be delayed

Attach a scan or photo of a letter confirming the reason for your travel. The letter must:

• be from a doctor or hospital
• be on headed paper
• be in English, or be accompanied by a certified translation
• include your name
• include, where relevant, the name of the sick or dead person and their relationship to you

You can send a death certificate but it must be accompanied by the letter confirming the reason for your travel.

Where to send your supporting email

Send your email with supporting evidence to the Home Office travel document enquiries team.

Put ‘New application enquiry – urgent compassionate case’ and your name in the subject line.

Home Office travel document enquiries [email protected]

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International Travel as a Permanent Resident

In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s website .

If seeking to enter the United States after temporary travel abroad, you will need to present a valid, unexpired “Green Card” (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). When arriving at a port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will review your permanent resident card and any other identity documents you present, such as a passport, foreign national I.D. card or U.S. Driver’s License, and determine if you can enter the United States. For information pertaining to entry into the United States, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage .

Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. A general guide used is whether you have been absent from the United States for more than a year. Abandonment may be found to occur in trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, own property or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence.

If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 . Obtaining a reentry permit prior to leaving the United States allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States. For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

If you remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years, any reentry permit granted before your departure from the United States will have expired. In this case, it is advisable to consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An SB-1 applicant will be required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and will need a medical exam. There is an exception to this process for the spouse or child of either a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad on official orders. For more information on obtaining a returning resident visa, see the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas .

Additionally, absences from the United States of six months or more may disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you wish to preserve your continuous residency in the United States for naturalization purposes, you may file an Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes on Form N-470. For more information, please see the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page.

If you lose your Green Card or reentry permit or it is stolen or destroyed while you are abroad, you may need to file a Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) . This carrier documentation will allow an airline or other transportation carrier to board a lawful permanent resident bound for the United States without the carrier being penalized. For more information, please see the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.

More Information

• Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (PDF, 3.57 MB)
• How Do I Get a Reentry Permit? (PDF, 667.32 KB)
• I-131, Application for Travel Document
• I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card Resources
• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Lawful Permanent Resident? (PDF, 577.38 KB)
• How Do I Renew or Replace My Permanent Resident Card? (PDF, 550.19 KB)
• "How Do I" Guides for Permanent Residents