advance parole travel checklist

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Advance Parole

Due to recent changes to U.S. immigration law, travel outside of the United States may have severe consequences for aliens who are in the process of adjusting their status or applying for an immigrant visa (refugees and asylees). Upon return, these aliens may be found inadmissible, their applications may be denied, or both. It is important that the alien obtain the proper documentation before leaving the United States.

Aliens who have pending applications for certain immigration benefits need Advance Parole to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad.

Aliens applying for advance parole on the basis of a pending application for adjustment of status must be approved for advance parole prior to leaving the United States in order to avoid the termination of their pending application for adjustment . Note: this does not apply to aliens who have applied to adjust to permanent resident status and who maintain H-1B (Specialty Worker) or L-1 (Intracompany Transferee) status, or their dependents, who have applied to adjust to permanent resident status and who have valid H-1B or L status and valid visas, V nonimmigrants who have a valid V nonimmigrant visa, are in valid V nonimmigrant status and have or obtain a valid V nonimmigrant visa before applying for readmission to the US, and K-3/4 nonimmigrants who have applied to adjust to permanent resident status and who have a valid K-3/4 nonimmigrant visa, are in valid K-3/4 nonimmigrant status and have or obtain a valid K-3/4 nonimmigrant visa before applying for readmission to the US.

An I-131 application for Advance Parole is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) pursuant to the instructions found on their Website.

Aliens in the United States should, prior to departure , obtain Advance Parole in order to re-enter the United States after travel abroad if they have:

• Filed an application for adjustment of status but have not received a decision from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services;
• Hold refugee or asylee status and intend to depart temporarily to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa in Canada; and/or
• An emergent personal or bona fide reason to travel temporarily abroad.

Applicants who are the beneficiary of a Private bill and Applicants who are under deportation proceedings must file to the Department of Homeland Security, 425 I Street, NW, ATTN: Parole and Humanitarian Assistance Branch, Washington, DC 20536. Aliens in the United States are not eligible for Advance Parole if they are:

• In the United States illegally; or
• An exchange alien subject to the foreign residence requirement.

Please note that Advance Parole does not guarantee admission into the United States. Aliens with Advance Parole are still subject to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection process at the port of entry.

For more information, please visit the State Department website or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website. To apply for a passport, U.S. citizens can visit State Department website or call the U.S. Passport Office at 1-877-4USA-PPT or TDD/TYY: 1-888-874-7793. Foreign residents should contact their respective governments to obtain passports.

Advance Parole Travel Document Guide

Planning international travel as a non-citizen in the United States requires careful consideration of your immigration status and the documents needed for re-entry. This guide clarifies the complexities of travel documents, explicitly focusing on the Advance Parole travel permit.

Re-entering the U.S. legally after traveling abroad hinges on possessing the correct documentation. This depends on your immigration status (permanent resident or otherwise) and any pending immigration applications. Generally, you’ll need a valid entry document (Green Card) , a non-immigrant visa, or a travel permit (valid and unexpired, with the specific type determined by your immigration status).

IMPORTANT ! You must apply for a travel permit, particularly Advance Parole, before departing the U.S.! The USCIS travel document processing time varies, so factor this into your travel planning.

This guide primarily focuses on the Advance Parole travel document, obtainable through USCIS Form I-13: Application for Travel Document . However, this form can also be used for other travel documents , including refugee travel documents, re-entry permits, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel authorizations.

Since this guide explores the Advance Parole U.S. travel document , let’s discuss eligibility requirements, the application process, the I-131 processing time and timeline, and other crucial considerations for a legal and uneventful travel experience!

What Is an Advance Parole Document?

An Advance Parole permit is a travel document issued by USCIS on Form I-131 . It grants permission to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad, specifically for individuals with pending immigration applications.

Many of us think about bad things when we hear “parole” but forget about dramatic scenes from our favorite legal drama or cop show! In immigration law, “advance parole” isn’t about early release from prison. The advanced parole meaning here is “ traveling abroad and returning legally to the U.S. ” Without this document, your Green Card application could be jeopardized , leading to a much less thrilling situation than anything you’d see on TV.

An Advanced Parole travel authorization’s most crucial function is facilitating your re-entry without an additional visa. This document allows you to travel outside the U.S. and return without obtaining a separate visa if your application for permanent residence (Form I-485) or asylum (Form I-589) remains pending.

Moreover, it protects your pending application. Unlike traveling without Advance Parole, which can lead to denial of your green card or asylum application, having this document safeguards your application status.

Who Needs Advance Parole Documents?

Advance Parole travel documents are particularly beneficial for individuals in the following situations:

• Pending green card application (Form I-485) : Departing the U.S. with a pending green card application without Advance Parole will typically result in USCIS denying your case.
• Pending asylum application (Form I-589) : Asylum seekers who intend to travel abroad and return must obtain an Advance Parole to avoid their application being considered abandoned.

IMPORTANT ! You should apply for Advance Parole concurrently with your initial green card or asylum application , even if you don’t plan immediate travel. It ensures the document is available for unforeseen situations like family emergencies or business opportunities.

The Consequences of Traveling Outside the U.S. with a Pending Immigration Status

USCIS warns all travelers about the potential consequences of going outside the U.S. with a pending immigration application. Let’s see what you need to know to avoid jeopardizing your situation.

• If you’re a non-immigrant and filed Form I-539 to switch to a different non-immigrant status , leaving the U.S. before USCIS’s decision leads to abandoning your application (with some exceptions). Having an Advanced Parole document won’t prevent this. You might be denied re-entry if your non-immigrant status expires before you return .
• If you’re applying for a Green Card and leave the U.S. without proper travel authorization (like the Advance Parole travel permit), you might be denied re-entry upon return. USCIS might even consider your Green Card application abandoned .
• If you have overstayed your visa (unlawful presence) or have a removal order , traveling abroad, even with a travel document, can make re-entry difficult . USCIS considers a trip with Advance Parole a “departure” for some purposes but not necessarily for those related to the unlawful presence bar.

IMPORTANT ! The Advance Parole travel document does not guarantee your re-entry, regardless of your situation! While Advance Parole authorizes travel, the final decision on re-entry rests with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry.

Who Qualifies for an Advanced Parole Travel Document (Type D)?

Advance Parole (Type D) is a specific category within the travel document issued by USCIS through Form I-131. As mentioned, it grants permission to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad, specifically for non-citizens already present within the U.S. with ongoing immigration applications or statuses.

Advance Parole Travel Permit Eligibility Criteria for People Inside the U.S.

Eligibility for filing Form I-131 with USCIS also translates to eligibility for an Advance Parole permit (Type D). Let’s see who qualifies for Advanced Parole!

Pending Green Card applications ( Form I-485 or Form I-821)

Approved Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel authorization ( Form I-821 )

Current DACA recipients

Current T non-immigrant status holders

Pending Affirmative Asylum application ( Form I-589 )

Existing parole status under INA 212(d)(5)

Other Specific Situations

Description

Non-citizens with applications for permanent residence under review by USCIS can travel abroad and return legally with Advance Parole. This applies to those who filed under either Form I-485 (adjustment of status) or Form I-821 (asylum applicant seeking adjustment).

Individuals with approved TPS status may be eligible for Advance Parole for temporary travel abroad, allowing them to return under the protection of their TPS designation.

DACA recipients in good standing can use Advance Parole for temporary travel without impacting their DACA status. This includes those with a pending renewal application (Form I-821D).

Non-citizens granted T non-immigrant status as victims of human trafficking may be eligible for Advance Parole to facilitate authorized travel abroad.

Asylum seekers who filed Form I-589 can obtain Advance Parole to avoid abandoning their application upon returning from temporary travel.

Depending on their circumstances, non-citizens currently paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5) may qualify for Advance Parole.

Additional eligibility criteria may exist for specific situations as outlined in the official Form I-131 instructions provided by USCIS.

As we reach this stage in our Advanced Parole travel document guide, we must emphasize that you must discuss your situation with an immigration expert (lawyer or service provider) to understand your precise eligibility for Advance Parole based on your unique immigration status and application history.

USCIS allows Advance Parole (I-131 form) submissions if you belong to a category mentioned above, but you need specific justifications:

• Urgent humanitarian reasons: This category covers unexpected personal or family emergencies that require travel, such as a severe illness or death of a close relative.
• Significant public benefit: Travel deemed beneficial to the public good may qualify. This could include attending a crucial business meeting leading to economic growth or participating in a research conference that advances scientific knowledge. In immigration law, “bona fide” business reasons imply legitimate and genuine business purposes, not simply any business trip.

IMPORTANT ! The burden of proof lies with you to demonstrate your travel’s urgency or public benefit . USCIS will most likely deny an Advanced Parole travel petition if you want to go on a vacation !

Advanced Parole Travel Permit Eligibility Criteria for People Outside the U.S.

Imagine facing a family emergency or a critical business opportunity while being outside the U.S. An Advance Parole document, filed through Form I-131, might be a solution.

You can apply if:

• You’re currently outside the U.S.
• You have a provable pressing need for a temporary visit due to a critical personal situation ( urgent humanitarian reason ) or a vital opportunity that benefits the public ( significant public benefit ).
• Obtaining a regular visa is impossible, and any attempts to get waivers or permissions to re-enter the U.S. have been unsuccessful.

IMPORTANT ! Advance Parole can be a lifeline for those outside the U.S. facing urgent situations, but approval is never guaranteed . Even if granted, your temporary stay will have specific conditions .

Advanced Parole Travel Permit Eligibility for Filipino World War II Veterans

The Advance Parole document can also benefit certain family members of Filipino World War II veterans through the FWVP program. The FWVP allows particular beneficiaries of family-based immigration petitions to seek this type of parole travel document. It grants them temporary entry into the U.S. before their immigrant visas become available, reuniting families sooner. You can apply for an Advanced Parole travel document under FWVP provisions if: 

• You are a U.S. resident who is either a Filipino WWII veteran or the surviving spouse of one.
• You filed an approved Form I-130 petition for a family member whose visa isn’t yet available. 
• Your qualifying family relationship with this member existed before May 9th, 2016.

There are some additional things to consider if you’re a surviving spouse applying on behalf of a child or if the Filipino World War II veteran and their spouse are both deceased. USCIS has specific guidelines for these situations, so it’s best to check their website for the full details to ensure you meet all the requirements.

How to Apply for the Advanced Parole Travel Document

Before you start working on your Form I-131 application for an Advance Parole Travel Document, remember a few crucial things.

• Ensure the information you provide is accessible for USCIS to read. Black ink ensures a clean and permanent record.
• On each additional sheet, include your full name, Alien Registration Number if you have one, the specific section and item number you’re referencing from the form, and your signature and date. This helps USCIS associate the extra information with your application.
• Answer all questions thoroughly and truthfully. If a question doesn’t apply to your situation, write “N/A” (Not Applicable) to indicate this.

Next, we need to talk about documents. The specific paperwork you’ll need depends on whether you’re currently in the U.S. or applying for someone outside the U.S . Generally speaking, USCIS requires initial evidence such as a copy of a valid photo I.D. showing your picture, name, and date of birth.

Examples include your Employment Authorization Document , driver’s license, passport, or Green Card. However, the secondary evidence might become a little confusing.

IMPORTANT ! Form I-131 cannot accept Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) as a photo I.D.!

What Supporting Documents Do I Need for I-131 Form Submission?

Figuring out what to include with your Advance Parole application (Form I-131) can feel overwhelming. The good news is we’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re applying from within the U.S. or abroad, and whether your reasons for travel are humanitarian, for significant public benefit, or under the Filipino WW II Veterans Parole program, we’ll break down the specific requirements to help you submit an error-free petition. So, grab your documents, take a deep breath, and let’s get started!

Required Documents for Advanced Parole Permit Application for People Inside the U.S.

Applying for an Advance Parole document while residing in the U.S. streamlines travel for urgent reasons. However, before you start your I-131 Form submission, gather the necessary paperwork.

Copy of USCIS status document (if applicable)

Explanation or evidence for advance parole need

USCIS receipt for adjustment of status application (if applicable)

Form I-797 Notice of Action for DACA recipients

This could be a Green Card, EAD, or any official documentation issued by USCIS reflecting your current immigration status in the U.S.

A written explanation detailing the urgency of your travel (humanitarian reasons) or the significant public benefit it offers. Supporting documentation (e.g., medical records, business invitations) may be required.

A copy of USCIS's receipt note acknowledging your adjustment of status application.

A copy of the USCIS decision notice (Form I-797) confirming deferred action under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

Establishes your lawful presence within the United States.

Demonstrates the compelling justification for your temporary travel outside the U.S.

Verify your pending application for permanent residency, which is a common reason for needing Advanced Parole.

Provides evidence of your DACA status, a relevant category for Advance Parole applications.

This table summarizes the documents needed when applying from within the U.S. The requirements can differ when you’re outside the U.S.

In the next section, we’ll explore the documents required for Advanced Parole applications submitted by individuals currently abroad.

Required Documents When Applying for Advanced Parole While Outside the U.S.

Applying for an Advance Parole permit while residing outside the U.S. is also possible for urgent reasons or significant public benefit opportunities. However, the required documents differ from those needed for applications submitted within the U.S.

This section will detail the documents required depending on your situation: applying under the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole (FWVP) program or for other reasons.

Required Documents for Advance Parole Application (Outside the U.S.) - FWVP Program

This table outlines the documents required when applying for Advance Parole under the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole (FWVP) program while residing outside the U.S.

Copy of Form I-797 Notice of Action (or printout)

Completed Form I-134

Evidence of veteran's military service

Marriage evidence & veteran's death certificate (surviving spouse only)

This document shows the approval of your Form I-130 petition filed by a Filipino veteran or surviving spouse for a family member.

This form is a Declaration of Financial Support, demonstrating your ability to financially support the family member upon their entry to the U.S.

Documentation recognizing the Filipino veteran's World War II service by the U.S. Army.

Proof of marriage to the veteran and official documentation of their passing (applicable to surviving spouses only).

Establishes your eligibility for the FWVP program based on a pre-approved family immigration petition.

Provides financial assurances for the sponsored family member.

Verifies the veteran's military service qualification for the FWVP program.

Establishes your qualifying relationship as the surviving spouse of a Filipino World War II veteran.

Required Documents for Advance Parole Application (Outside the U.S.) - Other Reasons

This table outlines the documents required when applying for Advanced Parole for reasons other than the FWVP program while residing outside the U.S.

Detailed explanation

Completed form I-134

Explanation for visa denial (if applicable)

Explanation for waiver denial (if applicable)

Copies of petitions/applications & evidence

Copies of the front & back of the ID (if the initial ID has annotations)

Copies of petitioner/sponsor ID & status proof

A written explanation outlining the urgent need for travel (humanitarian reasons) or the significant public benefit it offers. Supporting documentation (e.g., medical records, business invitations) may be required.

The affidavit of support proves the financial ability of a U.S. sponsor to support you upon entry into America.

A written explanation detailing why you could not obtain a U.S. visa, including any attempts made.

A written explanation detailing why you could not obtain a waiver of inadmissibility, including any attempts made to do so (if applicable).

Copies of any decisions on past immigrant or non-immigrant petitions or applications filed for you, along with evidence of any pending petitions or applications.

If your initial photo ID (except a valid passport) has annotations on either side, you must submit copies of both sides.

Copies of the official I.D. documents and proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status for the person filing I-131 on your behalf (petitioner) and the U.S. sponsor (if applicable).

Provides financial assurances for you by a U.S. Sponsor.

Explains the obstacle preventing you from obtaining a regular visa.

Explains the obstacle preventing you from obtaining a waiver for inadmissibility.

Provides USCIS with your immigration history relevant to your advance parole request.

Ensures USCIS has a complete picture of your identity document.

Verifies the identity and immigration status of the individual submitting the application and the sponsor.

IMPORTANT ! If you’re applying for Advance Parole from outside the U.S. and are between 14 and 79 years old , there’s an additional step to consider. For most applicants in this situation, USCIS requires fingerprinting as part of their biometrics services. This applies whether you seek Advanced Parole for urgent humanitarian reasons, a significant public benefit opportunity, or even under the FWVP . Don’t worry; USCIS or the Department of State will let you know your nearest biometrics appointment , depending on your location.

Applying for Advance Parole with Your Green Card Submission

As mentioned, traveling abroad while your green card application is pending can be tricky. You’ll need the Advanced Parole document to avoid any issues re-entering the U.S. Here’s the good news: applying for Advance Parole is most convenient with your initial green card application!

You can obtain both documents in one efficient step by including Form I-131 with your primary marriage green card forms ( I-130 and I-485 ) during your initial application submission. 

Even if you’ve already submitted your green card application, you can still apply for Advance Parole separately . You’ll need to file Form I-131 with USCIS and include a copy of your photo I.D., two passport-sized photos, and a copy of the receipt notice confirming USCIS received your green card application with the full fee .

Where to File Form I-131 for Advanced Parole Travel Document

Two groups of people can apply for a travel document (Form I-131) online with USCIS for reasons of urgent family needs, important public benefit, or to stay in the U.S.:

• People outside the U.S. who need permission to enter for a short time due to a severe family emergency or a situation that would greatly benefit the public. They cannot apply for parole through a family reunification program.
• People who have already been paroled into the U.S. and want to apply to stay longer.

In both cases, the application types on the paper form I-131 should be 1.e. or 1.f.

If you do not belong to any category, you must check the filing addresses for Form I-131 on the USCIS website.

How Much Does the Advanced Parole Travel Document Cost?

The I-131 processing fee is $630 , and most applicants do not pay a biometrics fee. When paying fees in person at a field office, you can only use personal checks, debit cards, credit cards, or reloadable prepaid cards .

What Is the Advance Parole Processing Time?

Advanced parole processing time is probably the biggest conundrum when dealing with U.S. travel documents. Why? Because the I 131 processing time can be between 3 and 16 months , with an average of 6 months . 

Since the current USCIS travel document processing time renders the terms “urgency” or “emergency” void of any meaning, USCIS allows you to expedite the I-131 timeline under specific circumstances. 

You have two options to get an Advanced Parole travel permit faster, depending on your situation:

Expedited Advanced Parole Processing (For Travel at Least 45 Days Away)

If an unexpected event necessitates travel outside the United States within the next 45 days or more, you could expedite the processing the I-131 application for a travel document. This might help you receive your travel authorization in time for your critical trip.

To request expedited processing, USCIS offers you several convenient options:

• Call USCIS toll-free number at 1-800-375-5283 (or 1-800-767-1833 for TTY service). A USCIS representative can guide you and initiate your expedited request.
• Use USCIS’s virtual assistant tool, Ask Emma. Follow the prompts to request expedited processing for your travel document application.
• You can submit your expedition request electronically with a USCIS online account. Log in to your account, navigate to the appropriate section, and select “expedite” as your inquiry type. Be prepared to upload any supporting documentation that strengthens your request.

IMPORTANT ! When requesting expedited processing of your Advanced Parole permit, submit your request well before your intended travel date . USCIS recommends a minimum of 45 days to allow them sufficient time to review your request and accelerate your U.S. travel document’s processing.

Emergency Advanced Parole Issuance (For Travel in the Next 15 Days)

You may require travel authorization within a much shorter timeframe in certain urgent situations. USCIS can provide emergency issuance of travel documents for qualified individuals facing critical circumstances. This emergency issuance option is typically reserved for situations where travel is needed within the next 15 days .

USCIS may consider issuing an emergency Advanced Parole travel document for the following qualifying urgent situations:

• If you require urgent medical care that is unavailable in the U.S.
• Sudden emergencies involving the critical illness or death of an immediate family member or close friend.
• If you have a pre-existing, critical travel commitment that cannot be postponed due to a delayed travel document (even if you previously requested expedited processing).

How to Request Emergency Issuance for Advance Parole Permits

Due to the time-sensitive nature of emergencies, USCIS offers two options for requesting urgent issuance of a travel document (Advanced Parole permit included):

• Call 1-800-375-5283 (or 1-800-767-1833 for TTY service) to speak with a USCIS representative about your emergency travel needs.
• Use the USCIS website to schedule an emergency appointment at a local USCIS field office through their “ My Appointment ” system.

What to Bring to Your Emergency Appointment

When attending your emergency appointment, be sure to bring the following essential documents:

• Even if you have a pending application for Form I-131, you must complete and sign a new I-131 form specifically for emergency issuance .
• Proof of eligibility for Advanced Parole travel document.
• Compelling documentation and explanations to substantiate the critical nature of your travel request. Additional guidance on acceptable evidence is found on the USCIS Expedite Requests page.
• Two passport-style photos.
• Certified English translations of all documents not in English to ensure clear communication with USCIS officials.

As you can see, even in critical emergencies, you still need to go through the process and maybe wait two weeks to get your documents in order. However, you have some chances to streamline the emergency issuance process for your Advanced Parole travel document. For this reason – if it wasn’t clear enough – the best time to apply for an Advanced Parole permit is together with your I-485 .

Your I-131 Is Approved. What Next?

Having your I-131 application approved is excellent news! You can now travel outside the United States and return without jeopardizing your pending green card application. However, there are essential things to consider before booking your trip.

• Factor in travel documents’ processing times and avoid scheduling trips so close to your green card interview or fingerprinting appointments that missing them is possible.
• Double-check the expiration date on your Advanced Parole travel document and ensure your return trip is well within that timeframe.

You must consider that it typically takes 3-5 months to receive your travel document after submitting your green card application. Don’t book any trips until you have the document in hand !

Moreover, while the travel document might be valid for one year (with potential renewals) , you still have a pending green card application. You cannot stay outside the U.S. for so long that you miss your green card interview or fingerprinting appointments. USCIS will provide rescheduling instructions if needed, but it’s best to avoid this complication altogether.

One issue you need to consider (and make peace with) is that even with an approved travel document, you’ll be considered an “ arriving alien ” when re-entering the U.S. Secondary inspections to verify your green card application status are common. Be prepared to answer questions from border agents and have your green card application documents handy.

If you have concerns about your immigration history (e.g., past time spent in the U.S. without legal status), consult immigration experts or a law firm before traveling. Leaving the U.S. under certain circumstances could trigger a ban on re-entry for several years (3 to 10).

Even if you submitted your Advanced Parole application separately from your Green Card petition , you can still travel abroad and return to the U.S. with an approved I-131 Form . All you need to do is plan your trip carefully. 

If a critically urgent situation arises , do your due diligence to expedite the Advance Parole processing time as instructed in the section above.

Advanced Parole Renewal

If you were previously paroled into the U.S. with Advanced Parole and need to extend your stay , you must file a new Form I-131 with supporting documents . Mark “ REPAROLE ” at the top of the form to indicate your request for a renewed parole travel authorization .

Former participants in Operation Allies Welcome (Afghan nationals) seeking to extend their parole status can request an EAD alongside their parole renewal application (Form I-131). Mark “Yes” or “No” in the designated section.

Remember, the work permit won’t be issued until your renewed parole is approved , and a denied parole travel application automatically cancels your EAD request . This simplifies the process for OAW applicants, eliminating the need for a separate Form I-765 application . However, obtaining a Social Security number and card requires contacting the Social Security Administration directly.

Advanced Parole Travel Document Denial and Next Steps

Unfortunately, USCIS may deny your I-131 application for several reasons. 

• Review the denial notice carefully. It should outline the specific reason(s) for rejection. Common causes include missing information, incorrect details, or lacking required documents.
• You may not have met the specific criteria for the requested travel document type.
• A criminal background, especially involving serious offenses, could lead to denial.
• Past violations like overstaying a visa or entering the U.S. illegally can be grounds for denial.
• If your application raises national security red flags, such as ties to terrorism or being on a watchlist, it will likely be denied.

What to Do If USCIS Denies Your Advanced Parole Travel Authorization

If the denial stemmed from incomplete information or missing documents, you can address those issues and re-submit your I-131 application. However, for denials based on eligibility, criminal history, or national security concerns, re-applying without addressing the underlying cause may not be successful.

The good news is a denied I-131 application does not affect your pending green card application (if you’re applying through adjustment of status).

IMPORTANT ! An immigration consulting firm or a lawyer can offer valuable guidance. They can help you understand the Advanced Parole denial, determine the best path forward, and increase your chances of obtaining the travel authorization you need.

Advanced Parole Travel Document Frequently Asked Questions

If you still need clarifications regarding USCIS travel documents, the Advanced Parole uses and benefits, or the application process, let’s review the answers we have already offered some of our former clients!

Having an Advance Parole travel document doesn’t mean you can automatically get a job. But, if you’ve applied for a green card, you can apply for a separate Employment Authorization Document while you wait for the green card decision. The work permit will allow you to get a legal job in the U.S.

Unfortunately, yes. Even with an Advance Parole document, approval to re-enter the United States is not guaranteed. While Advance Parole authorizes you to travel outside the U.S., the final decision on who gets to return rests with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (at the airport, for instance).

We don’t recommend it. According to USCIS guidelines, traveling outside the United States while your application for Advance Parole (Form I-131) is still pending could be considered abandoning your application, which could result in USCIS denying your request for travel authorization.

Streamline Your Advance Parole Application with ImmigrationDirect

Obtaining an Advance Parole travel document can open doors for essential travel while your green card application progresses or when you need to respond to a crisis or a public benefit opportunity. Nevertheless, checking all eligibility boxes, applying for the correct U.S. travel document type, and ensuring all paperwork is accurate can be confusing and exhausting.

At ImmigrationDirect , our experienced immigration specialists and lawyers can guide you through the I-131 application process. We’ll work diligently to ensure your Advanced Parole application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time!

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Traveling with Advance Parole in 2024

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Introduction

This guide contains information on advance parole and what to expect before, during, and after traveling abroad.

USCIS continues to accept and adjudicate advance parole applications filed by DACA recipients.

*The September 13, 2o23 order from the Southern District of Texas and the ongoing DACA litigation has not stopped USCIS from issuing advance parole documents to DACA recipients. If that should change, USCIS will provide updated information.

Advance parole is a procedure by which certain noncitizens receive permission to reenter the U.S. after temporarily traveling abroad. This is a process that is part of the government’s broader authority to parole (or allow someone into the U.S.) based on its discretion.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues an advance parole travel document to travelers before they depart the U.S. While these travelers may use this document to travel back to the U.S., entry to the U.S. is dependent upon the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at a port of entry.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which is an office within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), adjudicates applications for advance parole.

Advance parole is an option for certain noncitizens within the U.S. This includes recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), recipients of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), T and U visa holders, and most applicants who have already applied for a green card. In this guide, we will discuss advance parole for DACA recipients.

• You cannot apply for advance parole while your DACA application is pending or if your DACA, employment authorization document (EAD), has expired. If you apply for advance parole and your DACA expires while you are awaiting adjudication, USCIS may issue a Request For Evidence (RFE) that your DACA has been renewed. You must have a valid, unexpired passport from your country of citizenship to travel internationally.
• Study abroad programs or academic research
• Overseas assignments, conferences, interviews, trainings, or client meetings
• Humanitarian purposes include, but are not limited to Seeking medical treatment, visiting an ailing relative, or attending funeral services for a family member.
• Please note that this USCIS guidance is not an exhaustive list of examples. For example, an educational purpose may be a program through a private educational program or a non-profit organization. A humanitarian purpose might be a religious or other humanitarian mission. If the purpose for which you are seeking to travel is not listed, we suggest that you consult with a legal service provider . They may be able to help you understand how your travel fits within a valid purpose.
• Before you apply for advance parole, you should consider consulting with a legal service provider to determine risk and eligibility based on your legal situation.
• Prior case in immigration court, whether or not you actually went to court or the case resulted in a removal order
• Contact with the criminal legal system (arrests, charges, or convictions), even if it did not make you ineligible for DACA
• Multiple prior entries to the U.S. without permission to re-enter
• Immigration-related fraud or misrepresentation to the government

How do I apply for advance parole?

• Write a cover letter: Explaining the purpose of travel and summarizing the documents included in your application ( see example )
• Fill out the advance parole application: USCIS Form I-131 (Read the instructions carefully!) Currently, you must file a paper application and cannot apply for advance parole through the myUSCIS portal.
• Write a statement explaining purpose of travel
• Gather evidence supporting purpose of travel (see chart below)
• A copy of your most recent DACA Approval Notice (USCIS Form I-797)
• A copy of your Employment Authorization Document
• Two passport-sized photos
• Application Fee (currently $630) personal check, cashier’s check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”. For the latest USCIS fees, visit their website .

The following chart suggests some forms of evidence that can help applicants with DACA demonstrate their valid purpose for traveling abroad on advance parole. For additional help in determining what sorts of documents to provide as evidence supporting your reason to travel, see the “ General Requirements ” portion of the USCIS instructions, on Page 8 at 1.c.(5).

Make two copies of your entire application. Keep a set with you and leave one with your attorney or family member. Be sure to travel with all of your original documents for re-entry into the U.S.

You can submit your complete Form I-131 and supporting documents to USCIS by mail. You can find out the specific direct filing address to use by visiting the USCIS website and clicking on the “Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals” subheading.

If you are experiencing an extremely urgent situation, you may request an emergency advance parole appointment at your local field office. Please see our guide on emergency advance parole .

If you are not traveling for emergency reasons, it is recommended that you submit your application more than six months before your desired date of travel. Processing times are unpredictable and vary.

Yes, you can include multiple reasons for which you need to travel.

Yes, this falls under a humanitarian purpose for traveling. Many people who did not have the opportunity to attend their family members’ funerals would like to visit their graves. This reason is not time-limited or limited to immediate family members; however, it is important to describe why this visit falls under a humanitarian purpose.

If the relative is more distant, you should describe why this relationship was so important (e.g. an aunt who raised you when you were a child). If their death was a long time ago, explain why you were unable to attend until now (e.g. you were a child, you didn’t have DACA, COVID made travel unsafe, etc.).

Yes! DACA recipients can request to travel abroad for medical reasons, which falls under the humanitarian travel purpose.

If the DACA recipient needs to travel abroad for their own medical reason, they should submit documentation from their doctor or dentist with their diagnosis, the treatment required, and how long it will take. They should also provide evidence, such as their own statement, on why they can’t obtain the specific medical treatment in the U.S., such as lack of health insurance or unaffordability.

If this is an urgent situation and you need advance parole immediately, see this guide.

Yes, DACA recipients may travel abroad to care for a relative who is undergoing a medical procedure. In this scenario, they should provide a letter from the relative’s doctor explaining when the procedure will take place and whether a caregiver is required. The DACA recipient should explain in their statement why they need to be a caregiver in this situation.

If this is an urgent situation and you need advance parole immediately, see this guide .

No. DACA recipients can only travel for educational, employment, and humanitarian purposes.

The Form I-131 instructions (see pp. 10-11) lists what documents an advance parole applicant should attach to their application and provides some suggestions of acceptable evidence. For the specific purpose of traveling (educational, employment, or humanitarian), it really depends on the reason!

It helps to think through the “who, what, when, where, and why” of your travel plans. Do you have evidence to answer each of those questions? It is especially important to include the time frame for the travel and why you need that period of time.

EMERGENCY Advance Parole as a DACA recipient

Risks of traveling abroad.

The advance parole document authorizes parole, but the decision to parole (or allow someone to physically enter the U.S.) is up to the discretion of a CBP officer at a port of entry. That could be either at the border or an airport. Certain circumstances may heighten the risk of being denied entry. It is important to consider the risks and be prepared for any potential situations that may arise.

Risk Factors to Consider:

• Traveling outside the parole date authorized by the advance parole document
• Traveling when DACA authorization (reflected on the dates on your employment authorization document) has expired
• Prior deportation or “voluntary departure” order
• Multiple prior periods of unlawful presence in the U.S.
• Contacts with the criminal system — whether they resulted in a conviction or not — that could lead to an “inadmissibility” finding

If any of these apply to you or you are not sure, always consult with an immigration attorney prior to traveling or applying for advance parole.

• Eligibility for a green card through Adjustment of Status rather than consular processing: If a DACA recipient initially entered the U.S. without inspection, traveling abroad on advance parole may have a positive effect on future immigration applications. If such a person is applying for a green card, they would generally have to complete the application at a U.S. Consulate in their home country, a process known as consular processing. With an entry on Advance Parole, a DACA recipient would be able to complete the green card “adjustment of status” process in the U.S.
• DACA Renewal: Trouble renewing DACA because you traveled outside of the advance parole dates or traveled with an expired DACA.
• Permanent Bar: If a person was deemed inadmissible under the “permanent bar” they will be denied entry into the U.S. They might be able to apply for permission to re-enter the U.S. after being outside the country for 10 years.
• Waiver for future Re-entry: If a person was deemed inadmissible due to contact with the criminal justice system, they might be denied entry into the U.S. They would need to be eligible for a waiver to legally re-enter in the future.
• Hinge future residency on physical presence in the US: If there’s any legislation for pathway to citizenship that is contingent on someone’s physical presence in the U.S. on a specific date. (e.g. DACA, that requires an individual to prove that they were in the U.S. on June 15, 2012). If someone is not physically present on that date, there might be a small risk that they would not be eligible.

Preparing to Travel

Preparing to leave the U.S. with advance parole is CRUCIAL! When you return to the United States, you will go through Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspection where you will be questioned by a CBP officer. You MUST pack your original advance parole document along with other important documents. Otherwise, you may not be allowed back in the U.S. Carry your original:

• Current, valid passport from your country of origin
• Your original advance parole document (scan a copy of this before you travel for your records)
• Employment authorization card (EAD)
• State ID or driver’s license
• Student ID (if applicable)
• (If you have an attorney) Attorney’s Form G-28 and their business card with contact information

Also carry the original copies of the documents listed below, as well as a copy of your advance parole application. Ensure you are prepared for any questions from CBP and be aware of your rights.

• Your most recent DACA approval notice
• Your advance parole application in its entirety
• Evidence that you traveled abroad for your intended purpose (e.g. relevant medical documents, educational coursework, conference materials, etc.)

Yes, your U.S. citizen child will need a passport to travel. You can make an appointment to get your child’s passport through the U.S. Postal Service website. Making your child’s passport may take several months.

As with all travel, there is a risk. In this case, if there are medical complications or the baby arrives early, there is a risk that you may not be able to re-enter the U.S. within the time frame that your advance parole document allows.

Re-Entering the U.S. on Advance Parole

Returning to the U.S. by Air. If you enter through a U.S. airport, you will pass through U.S. Immigration and Customs. You will be processed in the “Visitor” line, and you can ask an officer once you’re there if you are not sure. It is likely that a Customs and Border Protection officer will escort you to a separate room for secondary screening. There, a CBP officer may ask additional questions, check your belongings (including electronics), and finish processing your re-entry.

Returning to the U.S. by Land.

• If you travel to the United States by land in a vehicle (such as by car over the U.S.-Canada border or U.S.-Mexico border) at a designated Port of Entry (POE), you will have to present your advance parole and supporting documents, including proof of citizenship of your home country, to a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agent. Proof of citizenship may include a passport or birth certificate from your home country. If you are sent to secondary inspection, CBP may ask you to park your vehicle and step outside of the vehicle to wait while they further inspect your documents and/or the vehicle.
• If you travel to the United States by foot at a POE, you will have to enter a processing facility to present your documents to a CBP agent. If you are placed in secondary inspection while traveling by foot, CBP may ask you to enter another designated room within the facility where you will present your advance parole and supporting documentation to another agent.

What to consider before reentry:

• Consider the destination of your returning flight based on previous DACA recipients’ experiences with CBP in certain locations. You will go through the inspection process at the first airport you land in the U.S.
• If you have a connecting flight to your home city, be sure to give yourself additional time for any subsequent airline connections.
• Make a list of all emergency contacts (hard copy, not on the phone). Try to have an immigration attorney or congressional staffer in your district as an emergency contact. Carry their business card(s) if possible.
• Let a family member(s) know of your anticipated time of departure and arrival before traveling since you may not be allowed to use your cell phone until you clear customs.
• Use the restroom before inspection and keep water and snacks with you.

A CBP officer will ask questions about your trip abroad when you are re-entering the U.S., such as:

• What was the reason for your trip abroad?
• For how long were you gone?
• Did you purchase anything while you were abroad? If so, what did you purchase?
• What countries did you visit?
• Where did you stay?
• What documents do you have with you?
• What do you do in the U.S.? (e.g., work, school, etc.)

If you have any prior tickets or arrests (even those that didn’t result in convictions), CBP might question you about the circumstances of those incidents. CBP may also question you about your immigration history, including when and how you initially entered the U.S. If you have concerns about these lines of questioning, please consult with an immigration attorney prior to traveling.

After processing, the border official will hand you back your original forms of identification. They will stamp the advance parole document and your passport.

In many cases, the border official will keep the original advance parole document; the stamp in your passport will serve as proof of re-entry through parole.

You may also obtain your I-94 online through the CBP website. Keep copies of your advance parole document, entry stamp in your passport, and I-94 printout as they will be useful to you when renewing DACA and in future immigration processes.

Anxiety about traveling and re-entering is very real! The best thing you can do is prepare for what to expect by reading about the process, speaking with other DACA recipients who have traveled on advance parole, and arranging support.

This may mean discussing a plan ahead of time with your attorney, if you have one, and carrying their form G-28 with you when you travel. You can also contact your Congressional representative to explain your situation and ask for a contact at their office in case you run into problems at the border.

Yes, this is a very real possibility, although it is still a contested area of law. Immigration officials at the border have a lot of power to search your belongings, including your electronic devices.

Because the decision to parole someone into the U.S. is discretionary, it is risky for a DACA recipient to refuse to hand over their phone or argue with an immigration official. It is best for travelers to anticipate that their phone may be searched and to prepare ahead of time to keep their information private.

Always be thoughtful with what information you make public. The guidelines for DACA recipients applying for advance parole list the three valid purposes for traveling (educational, employment, and humanitarian) and then state “travel for vacation is not a valid purpose.”

When you fly back to the United States, it is most likely the airline will have you complete check-in in person and not online.

When you go up to the counter the airline attendants may ask to see your U.S. visa or green card, this is when you let them know you are traveling with advance parole. They may ask to see your document. Make sure the airline doesn’t keep your original advance parole document, you will need to show CBP upon re-entering the United States.

Some airlines are not aware of what advance parole is so it may take some time for them to validate this. Ensure you go to the airport with enough time in case it takes long for them to check .

Passport Control Outside the U.S. If you have a connecting flight outside the U.S. you may go through “Passport Control.” Once again, they may ask for your U.S. visa or green card. Let them know that you reside in the U.S. and are traveling with advance parole, a special document issued by the U.S. government that allows you to re-enter the U.S. Depending on the agent they may ask to see the advance parole document. Ensure you have enough time to complete this so that you don’t miss your connecting flight. Make sure they don’t keep your original advance parole document, you will need to show CBP upon re-entering the United States.

Check Out Eliana’s Advance Parole Story

Additional FAQ

No. At this time, DACA recipients must mail in their advance parole applications.

If you are getting a document translated it must be accompanied by a certificate of translation. Although advance parole applications are not filed before the immigration court, their template can be used for filings with USCIS. See the template here . Any person who is fluent in Spanish and English and can translate between the two languages can translate your document and sign the certificate.

No. USCIS does not refund fees, regardless of any action they take on your application.

Any time a DACA recipient changes their residence, they should complete a Form AR-11 . This is especially important if the DACA recipient is requesting emergency advance parole in-person at a USCIS field office. If a previous address outside the field office’s jurisdiction is on file, the field officers may want to see that an AR-11 was filed.

If you lost the Form I-512L advance parole document, then you will have to refile the application with the fee. You can note that an advance parole document was previously issued but lost. Same goes for any mistakes in names or dates that were present on your I-131 application; however, if USCIS is responsible for the typo or erroneous dates, you do not have to pay the filing fee.

You can also use USCIS’s online tools to put in a service request if the document was lost in the mail. If you can show a USCIS error (e.g. they mailed the advance parole document to a different address than the one you put on the I-131 form), this may be helpful. However, USCIS may not respond to this service request for several weeks.

If you are close to your intended travel date and there is an emergency, you may request an InfoPass appointment at your local USCIS field office. For more information see this guide .

Everyone’s case is different and everyone assumes different risks. If you are scheduling an appointment with an attorney, ask them if they regularly apply for advance parole for DACA recipients. For more tips on how to find a good immigration lawyer, see this guide .

You must respond to USCIS’s Request for Evidence (RFE) by the stated deadline. Failure to do so will result in a denial of your application. USCIS may send an RFE if your intended date of travel has passed. If you are flexible with your plans, you may request new dates and offer updated evidence (e.g. flexible study abroad program, ongoing health needs of relative abroad, etc.).

No. Your employment authorization document (EAD), or DACA, must be valid and unexpired at the time that you submit your application for I-131 Travel Document, or Advance Parole. It is suggested that you apply for advance parole after your DACA renewal request has been approved.

When filing a DACA renewal, you must respond to the questions that ask about travel. You should attach copies of your advance parole document, entry stamp in your passport, and a printout of your Form I-94 that you can obtain online.

If a DACA recipient entered without inspection by an immigration official, they are not able to apply for a green card in the U.S. (the “adjustment of status” process) and will have to travel to their home country to have an interview at a U.S. consulate there (“consular processing”).

If a DACA recipient travels on advance parole and is paroled back into the country, they may then go through the adjustment of status process in the U.S. and obtain their green card without leaving the U.S.

Make sure to speak to an attorney about your specific case and if advance parole is the best option for you. See this guide for help on where to find a lawyer.

Additional resources

• Topics covered include funding, how to apply, and preparing for travel. This resource also features audio stories from DACA recipients who have traveled outside the U.S. using Advance Parole.
• American University’s Defending the AU Dream Initiative— Advance Parole for DACA Recipients: Considerations for Traveling or Studying Abroad

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Form I-131: The Advance Parole Travel Document Explained

If you have or are applying for a green card, DACA status, or certain humanitarian visas, and you want to travel outside the United States, you need to get a travel document from the U.S. government. You apply for this document by filing Form I-131: Application for Travel Document with USCIS. This allows you to get what’s called an Advance Parole document. Below is a guide on how to apply for Advance Parole step-by-step as well as tips for to plan for your temporary travel.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Updated September 24, 2023

What Is Advance Parole?

An Advance Parole document allows current green card applicants to leave the United States for temporary travel and return without disrupting their green card (permanent resident card) application process. There are a few situations you can be in while applying for Advance Parole, such as: having a pending application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or being a DACA recipient. In this article, we are focusing on individuals applying for Advance Parole with a pending green card application . 

To apply for Advance Parole, you must file Form I-131: Application for Travel Document with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Green card applicants looking to travel abroad for any reason must obtain Advance Parole before leaving the United States. If you leave the U.S. without the proper travel documents, USCIS will close your green card application.  

Why Do I Need Advance Parole?

You need Advance Parole if you have a pending green card (permanent resident card) application and want to take a trip outside the United States. If you leave the United States without Advance Parole and USCIS hasn’t approved your green card application, the agency will consider your case abandoned and likely deny for application.

If USCIS closes your green card application, you have to start the process over again, which is expensive and time-consuming. To avoid this, you need to complete Form I-131: Application for Travel Document and apply for Advance Parole before leaving the U.S.

You do not need to apply for Advance Parole if you are waiting for USCIS to process your Form I-485 and you are: 

A temporary worker under a valid H-1 visa (or their spouse or child)

An intra-company transferee under a valid L-1 visa (or their spouse or child)

Who Is Eligible for Advance Parole?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines eligibility on a case-by-case basis. You’re eligible to apply for Advance Parole if you fall within one of these categories:

You submitted an adjustment of status green card application using Form I-485

You applied for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)* 

You submitted an asylum application or you are an asylee

You currently have a pending application for temporary resident status under Section 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)

USCIS granted you TPS, T nonimmigrant, or U nonimmigrant status 

USCIS or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) granted you humanitarian parole under Section 212 (d)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)

You received benefits through the Family Unity Program

You’re a DACA recipient

*On July 1, 2022 USCIS began issuing a new travel authorization document for people who receive TPS. This new form is called: Form I-512T, Authorization for Travel by a Noncitizen to the United States.

Who Is Not Eligible for Advance Parole?

You aren’t eligible for Advance Parole if one or more of the following applies to you:

You are residing in the United States without valid immigration status after entering unlawfully many times

You have a valid reentry permit or refugee document 

You are on a J visa or a visa with a foreign residence requirement

You are a beneficiary of a private immigration bill approved by Congress

You are currently in the middle of a removal proceeding (deportation)

You are an asylee or a refugee, but you’re not adjusting your status to a green card 

If you’ve been in the United States unlawfully, you may file for Advance Parole. However, even if granted, you still may be barred from reentry by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). 

If you’ve lived in the United States without status for any period of time, you should always consult an immigration lawyer before traveling abroad. If you can't afford a lawyer, you can contact a legal aid office for help.

How Do I Apply for Advance Parole? A Step-by-Step Guide

First, you will need to complete the official application form, called Form I-131: Application for Travel Document. When you have completed the form, you will have to gather the government filing fees and supporting documentation, and then finally submit them together with Form I-131 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Step 1: Complete Form I-131

Form I-131 is officially called the Application for Travel Document. This document is used for anyone applying for a Reentry Permit, a Refugee Travel Document, and Advance Parole. You cannot submit your travel permit request to the U.S. government without completing and signing this form. 

You can complete the form in two ways — either online by creating a MyUSCIS account or on paper by downloading, printing, and completing the most recent version of Form I-131 from the USCIS website. You will need your Alien Registration Number (A Number) to complete your application.

Step 2: Gather Fees & Supporting Documents for Form I-131

When you have completed Form I-131, it is time to gather the $575 filing fee and the required supporting documents. You must include these supporting documents with the Form I-131 application:

Your receipt notice from USCIS after filing Form I-485, if your green card is pending

Two passport-style photographs 

USCIS-issued document showing the validity of your current immigration status — this could be an approval/receipt notice ( Form I-797 )

A photocopy of a government-issued identification document (ID), which must include your name, date of birth, and a photo — examples of acceptable forms of ID include a passport, drivers license, and employment authorization document (EAD)

Marriage certificate (if applying for Advance Parole based on your spouse’s pending green card application)

Child’s birth certificate (if applying for Advance Parole for a child based on a pending child green card application)

Detailed evidence explaining your reasons for traveling — you can explain your reasons with a Declaration of Support Letter

If any of your supporting documents aren’t in English, USCIS requires the documents be accompanied by a certified English translation .

It’s also a good idea to include a cover letter for your application. This short letter explains what supporting documents are in your application and helps keep things organized.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can submit your completed Form I-131: Application for Travel Document and supporting documents to USCIS either online or by mail. To submit online, you must first create a MyUSCIS account . Then you can submit your petition through your account on the USCIS website.

If you choose to submit your USCIS forms by mail, you will have to send your application packet to a specific USCIS filing address. The address depends on where you live and what mail service you use to send your forms. For Advance Parole applicants who have a pending Form I-485 (green card) application, you’ll send your documents either to the USCIS lockbox in Chicago, Dallas, or Phoenix. The USCIS website lists these addresses .

If You’re Filing Form I-131 Overseas

If you’re filing Form I-131 overseas, you must first get permission from your local U.S. embassy or consulate. You’ll have to set up an appointment with your local U.S. embassy to make your request in person. The State Department has an up-to-date list of all U.S. embassies and consulates.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Advance Parole?

The filing fee for Form I-131 is $575. If you cannot afford this filing fee, you may be able to apply for a fee waiver by filing Form I-912 . You can also check out our tips for fundraising the fees .

You can pay using a money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or credit card. All checks should be made payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” If you’re using a credit card, you must also file Form G-1450 : Authorization for Credit Card Transactions with your Form I-131 application. USCIS can only process your credit card payment using Form G-1450. 

How Long Does It Take To Get Advance Parole?

It’s currently taking USCIS 6 to 18 months to process Advance Parole applications. Processing times vary a lot by USCIS service center and may change over time. Your Form I-131 application can be delayed if you didn’t fill it out completely and correctly, mail it to the correct address, and ensure USCIS received it. 

The application processing time may take longer if the USCIS service center handling your case is experiencing significant processing backlogs. You can see USCIS’ current processing times on its webpage.

I Have an Emergency. Can I Get Advance Parole Quicker?

In some cases, USCIS will expedite applications. This can reduce the processing time to 30 days. To expedite your Advance Parole document application, you must demonstrate to USCIS that:

You’ve suffered a financial loss to your company or person

You’re experiencing an emergency

You have a valid humanitarian reason

You’re affiliated with a nonprofit organization requesting an expedited application for culture or social interests benefiting the United States

Your request is made by the Department of Defense or another U.S. government agency to promote the national interest

USCIS made an administrative error

You have another compelling interest determined by USCIS

USCIS grants emergency Advance Parole requests based on its officers’ discretion in emergencies. To do this, you will have to visit the nearest USCIS office with the following documents:

A completed Form I-131

Evidence supporting the emergency request

Two passport-style photos

Successful emergency Advance Parole requests are usually processed on the same day. 

What You Need To Know When Traveling With Advance Parole

Once you’ve successfully applied for Advance Parole, you cannot leave the United States until you’ve received your physical travel document. 

Typically, an Advance Parole document allows you temporary travel for up to one year abroad. However, USCIS reserves the right to revoke your Advance Parole document for any reason. If this happens, you cannot return to the United States without a valid U.S. visa or other documentation. 

You should also be mindful of scheduled fingerprinting ( biometric services ) and interview appointments. Although your travel permit may allow temporary travel for up to one year, you may miss many of these appointments without regularly returning to the U.S. 

The same goes for regularly receiving mailed communications (such as a notice of action ) from USCIS, which help you understand the status of your application. It’s best to make arrangements to receive mail while traveling abroad or update your mailing address with USCIS.

Reentry Into the U.S.

It is important to know that even if you have a valid Advance Parole document , there is no guarantee you can reenter the U.S. after traveling abroad. When arriving at a port of entry upon your return to the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will conduct an inspection and determine your admission back into the U.S. Unfortunately, DHS could deny your reentry. 

It is also possible for DHS to revoke your Advance Parole at any time, including while you are abroad. This can happen even if your Form I-131 application has been approved and you have the correct Advance Parole documents. With these risks, it is crucial to determine whether temporary travel outside of the United States is necessary.

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Immigration help for your business

• News & Reports
• Guides: Individual immigration

The “Advance Parole” I-131 Application for Travel Document

How to apply for a travel permit while waiting for your green card.

In this guide

• Why You Need a Travel Document
• When and How to Apply For a Travel Document
• Travel Restrictions and Renewing Your Travel Document
• Emergencies
• Planning Your Trip
• Returning to the United States With a Travel Document
• More Advance Parole FAQs
• Related Information

What is a travel permit?

A travel permit is a document that allows someone living in the U.S. while awaiting their green card to travel abroad without nullifying their green card application.

What is USCIS Form I-131?

Form I-131 is officially called the Application for Travel Document, and can be used to apply for one of several types of travel documents, such as a re-entry permit , refugee travel document , TPS travel authorization document , or the advance parole travel document , which is the subject of this guide.

What is Advance Parole?

The advance parole travel document permits you to travel back to the U.S. without applying for another visa, and without nullifying the application you have in progress. It is commonly used when someone has a pending application for permanent residence , adjustment of status or asylum .

Your green card application will be terminated if you leave the United States while that application is pending, unless you have a valid travel document at the time you leave the country.

Even if you don’t have any specific travel plans, it’s a good idea to apply for a travel document at the same time you first submit your green card application. Then, if you do need to travel for a family emergency, a business opportunity, or any other reason, you won’t need to decline because of your pending green card application.

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The travel document provides someone living in the United States with “advance parole.” (This has nothing to do with the “parole” you hear about in an episode of Law & Order . In the context of immigration law, “advance parole” is just a technical way of saying “permission ahead of time to re-enter the United States.”)

If you leave the United States while your green card application is pending and you don’t have a travel document, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will consider your green card application abandoned and will deny it. At best, that means you’ll have to redo all of the paperwork and pay the fees a second time. At worst, you could find yourself unable to re-enter the United States.

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The fastest and easiest way to apply for a travel document is as part of the original marriage green card application package you send to USCIS, by including Form I-131 (“Application for Travel Document”) along with the main forms ( I-130 and I-485 ).

You must attach a copy of your photo identification (such as a copy of the photo page of your passport) to the travel document application, as well as two passport-sized photos . There is no additional fee if you submit your travel document application (Form I-131) at the same time as your initial application for a green card (Form I-485, filed anytime after July 30, 2007).

If you’ve already submitted your green card application, you can still get a travel document that will allow you to leave the United States. In this case, when you file Form I-131 with USCIS, include a copy of your photo ID, two passport-sized photos, and a copy of the receipt notice showing that USCIS previously received your green card application including the full application fee. You will still be required to pay the $630 fee to file Form I-131 with a pending green card application.

It’s essential that you don’t leave the United States until you’ve actually received your travel document, but otherwise there are no travel restrictions for marriage-based green card applicants. You can only remain outside the United States, however, as long as you re-enter the U.S. before the expiration date printed on your travel document.

The travel document is valid for one year after it’s issued, typically within 150 days (in some cases longer) after submitting your application materials to USCIS. (Until recently, the normal processing time for a travel document was 90 days, but a growing backlog has caused additional delays. USCIS provides a database where you can check the most current processing times , updated once per month.)

If you haven’t received your green card yet and you plan to travel after that year has elapsed, it’s important to renew your travel document in a timely fashion. You can file a renewal application as early as 120 days before your current travel document expires, and it’s a good idea to submit the renewal as early as possible. The renewal travel document is usually processed within the same timeframe as that for the initial application: 150 days or longer. It’s important to plan ahead to avoid gaps in your ability to travel.

To renew your travel document, submit Form I-131 with a copy of your current travel document, a copy of the receipt notice from your green card application, and two passport-sized photos. There is no additional fee.

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It is possible to get an expedited travel document if you need to travel because of an emergency. USCIS issues emergency travel documents in situations like the death or sudden illness of a family member abroad. If you find yourself in this situation, you can make an appointment with your local USCIS office . You should bring your completed I-131, two passport photos, and evidence to prove that you have an urgent need to travel. This evidence might be a death certificate, medical records, or a signed letter from your family member’s doctor. There is no additional fee for an emergency travel document.

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The travel document usually arrives within 150 days (sometimes longer) after submitting your application. You can’t leave the country until you have your approved travel document in hand, so you should expect to spend the 3–5 months after submitting your green card application in the United States.

Theoretically, you could be out of the United States for as long as you have a travel document (one year plus renewals). In practice, however, that’s not possible, because then you would miss your fingerprinting and green card interview appointments . If you find that you are unable to attend your fingerprinting or interview appointment, you should promptly follow the rescheduling instructions printed on the USCIS appointment notice.

In general, it’s a good idea to make arrangements to be alerted of any USCIS notices that are sent to you while you are abroad. (For example, you can ask a friend or a neighbor to inform you of any USCIS notices you receive by mail.)

Even after you have submitted your green card application, you are still not a permanent resident of the United States. When you re-enter the United States , you’ll be considered an “arriving alien.” It’s fairly common for people with travel documents to be pulled aside for secondary inspection. Don’t be alarmed if that happens—the border agent is likely just verifying that you have a pending green card application.

Travel documents do not guarantee that the border agent will allow you back into the United States, however. If you have any reason to suspect that you might be turned away at the border, you should carefully consider whether or not you need to travel before your green card application has been approved.

For example, If you have been in the United States for any amount of time without legal immigration status, then leaving the United States under most circumstances will trigger a bar from re-entering the United States for either three or ten years , depending on how long you were in the United States without status. If you’re in this situation, it is a good idea to avoid travel until you have a green card.

In summary, there is really no downside to applying for a travel document at the same time you submit your green card application, so you should do so even if you don’t have any specific travel plans.

If you are in the U.S. and have applied for a green card but are still waiting for your application to be processed, then you might be interested in applying for a travel permit to travel outside the U.S.. Otherwise, if you leave without the travel document, USCIS may consider your green card application abandoned.

If you already have a green card, and wish to leave the U.S. for more than a year but less than two years, then you might also be interested in arranging for a travel document before you leave.

No, Advance Parole does not guarantee admission into the United States. Upon arriving at a port of entry, you’ll undergo inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers who will make the final decision on whether to admit you.

The Advance Parole document itself does not grant permission to work. However, individuals who have filed an adjustment of status application may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while waiting for a decision on their application.

If your Advance Parole document expires while you’re abroad, you might have difficulties returning to the U.S. It’s generally advised to return to the U.S. before your Advance Parole expires.

You can choose not to apply for a work permit now. If the applicant changes their mind later, they may apply for the work permit at any time after filing Form I-485 (officially called the “Application for Adjustment of Status”).

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Immigration guides.

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• Marriage Green Cards, Explained
• How is a Fiancé Visa Different from a Marriage-Based Green Card?
• How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage Green Card in the U.S.?
• What Are The Costs of a Marriage Green Card?
• What Documents Do I Need for a Marriage-Based Green Card?
• What is an Affidavit of Support? U.S. Immigration Help for Spouses
• Preparing for the Green Card Interview—U.S. Immigration Help
• U.S. Immigration Forms
• Traveling Outside the United States as a Green Card Holder
• Can I Travel Outside the U.S. While My Adjustment of Status Is Pending?

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Applying for Advance Parole: A Preliminary Checklist

Themes/Topics: Law & Policy

Geography: California, National

Audience: Undocumented Youth

This checklist is designed to help you navigate the Advance Parole application process. Please note that this resource includes starting points, but is not an exact step-by-step guide or legal advice.

1. Choose the category that best suits your situation & provide supporting evidence:

• Examples of supporting evidence include: a letter from a doctor confirming the medical treatment/diagnosis of the loved one, deceased family member’s death certificate.
• You should also include birth certificates or other documentation to prove the familial relation if traveling because of a family member.
• Examples of supporting evidence include: a letter from the school/university explaining what the program is, documentation of enrollment.
• Examples of supporting evidence include: a letter from your employer explaining why the travel is necessary, program/agenda for the event you plan to attend.

2. Gather the necessary paperwork:

• A completed I-131 Application for Travel Document form, found at uscis.gov
• Evidence of your reason for travel (see above for examples of evidence)
• A copy of your DACA approval notice
• A copy of a photo identification card (like your work permit or a state-issued identification card)
• A $575 Application fee (money order or check payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”). Note: There is a fee waiver available for people applying based on humanitarian reasons, but it is rarely granted. To learn more about how to cover the costs of your Advance Parole trip, check out the “Funding My Trip” section under our Advance Parole Travel Guide at immigrantsrising.org/AP .

3. Consult with your networks

• Ask people you trust to look over your application and make sure that: you have fulfilled all of the requirements, that everything is accurate and clear, and that there are no spelling errors or other mistakes. Note: any Form I-131 that is not signed or accompanied by the correct fees will be automatically rejected.
• You have previously been deported, have an old deportation order, or have ever been in removal (deportation) proceedings.
• You have had contact with the criminal-legal system (e.g. arrested, charged with any crime, etc).
• You are unsure how you first entered the country.
• You have left and come back to the U.S. on more than one occasion.

4. Submit your application

• Check the Filing Addresses for Form I-131 webpage for information on where to mail your application.

5. Wait for a response

• After you submit your application, you may be asked to schedule an interview with a USCIS official. Due to application backlogs, there are currently long wait times to receive notice regarding whether your application was approved or denied. If needed, consider contacting USCIS customer service to make an expedite request with an InfoPass appointment through your local office. If you have trouble getting through to a live agent, consider getting legal help .

6. Book your travel

• If your situation does not allow for you to wait to finalize your travel arrangements until you receive confirmation that you’ve been approved for Advance Parole, it might be a good idea to look into travel insurance to allow you some flexibility and protection in case of any changes.

This resource is part of the Advance Parole project. To learn more, visit immigrantsrising.org/AP .

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Form I-131 Supporting Document Checklist

You need to submit the Form I-131 when you are applying for: a Reentry Permit , a Refugee Travel Document , or an Advance Parole Document . In addition to the form, you also need to submit various supporting documents. This form I-131 checklist will help figure out which documents you need to include.

There are some basic items you will need to include when submitting the Form I-131 regardless of your situation. There are also some additional items you may need to submit based on the reason for your application (Reentry Permit, Refugee Travel Document, or Advance Parole Document).

Let’s get started with the basic form I-131 checklist you need to include:

Basic Form I-131 Checklist:

• A copy of your filled out Form I-131
• Identity documentation: a copy of an official document which shows your photo , name , and date of birth . For example, a current Employment Authorization Document, a valid driver’s license, the passport identity page, Form I-551, or a Permanent Resident Card.
• Photographs
• Biometrics Services (Please note: there is a biometrics services fee for those applicants between 14-79 seeking Reentry Permits and/or Refugee Travel Documents..)

Reentry Permit Checklist:

You need to attach a copy (front and back) of your Form I-551.

If you do not have your I-551 you have 2 options:

• Include a copy of the biographic pages of your passport and the visa page that shows your initial admission as a lawful resident; OR
• A copy of your Form I-797
• Your filing fee will be $575 .

Refugee Travel Document Checklist:

Attach a copy of the document showing your refugee (or asylee) status. This document should have been issued to you by the USCIS. It should include the expiration date of your refugee status.

If you are younger than 16 your filing fee will be $105 . If you are 16 or older it will be $135 .

Note: The application fee may not be required. This is true if you payed the fee and filed Form I-485 on or after 30 July 2007 and your I-485 is still pending. You must also now hold US refugee or asylee status.

Advance Parole Document Checklist:

The following requirements only apply for individuals who are currently in the US. You will need to attach:

• A copy of a document showing your current status in the US, issued to you by USCIS
• If you are seeking an adjustment of status – a copy of the receipt from USCIS. This receipt proves you filed the adjustment application; OR
• If you are traveling to Canada to apply for an immigrant visa – a copy of the appointment letter from the US consular; OR
• If your case has been deferred – under DACA by USCIS, include a copy of your I-797. If your case has been deferred by ICE, include a copy of your approval order, notice, or letter issued by ICE.
• Educational: include a letter from the school describing the purpose of travel and why your travel is necessary. OR include a document showing your in enrollment in a program that requires travel.
• Employment: include a letter from your employer or conference host describing the need for travel.
• Humanitarian: include a letter from your physician explaining your medical condition, the treatment you are seeking, and why your travel is medically necessary. OR include documentation of a family member’s illness or death.

If you are seeking an Advance Parole Document and you are outside the US you have a couple of options. You make file under a Family Reunification Parole policy or not.

• For HFRP: the completed document described by the HFRP Program in the application instructions of their invitation letter
• For CFRP: the completed document described by the CFRP Program in the application instructions of their invitation letter
• A copy of your I-797 or a printout from Case Status Online
• Your completed Form I-134
• Evidence that the WWII service from the Filipino veteran was previously recognized by the US Army. This service is to be defined by section 405 of the Immigration Act of 1990, as it is amended.
• Evidence of your marriage and a copy of your spouse’s death certificate. If you are the surviving spouse of the Filipino WWII veteran
• A detailed description of why such a situation requires an Advance Parole Document
• An explanation of the length time for which you are requesting the parole
• Copies of evidence that show the basis of your request.
• Your Form I-134
• A statement explaining why you cannot obtain a US visa. This statement should include when and where you have tried to obtain a visa. Or an explanation for why you did not seek a visa when entering the US.
• If it applies to you, include a statement explaining why a waiver of inadmissibility cannot be obtained. Include when and where you a have attempted to obtain a waiver, and a copy of any DHS decisions about your waiver request. Or an explanation for why you have not sought a waiver.
• A copy of any decision on an immigrant or non-immigrant petition or application and evidence regarding a pending petition or application.
• A copy of the biographical page of your beneficiary’s passport. If their passport is not available, provide an explanation for why and include a different government-issued identity document that shows the beneficiary’s citizenship.
• Copies of your and your Form I-134 sponsor’s official identity documents and evidence of your sponsor’s citizenship or US immigration status. This could be a copy of a US passport, lawful permanent resident card, or birth certificate.
• Your filing fee is $575

Note : If you are filing for an Advance Parole Document, the application fee may not be required. This is true if, you payed the fee and filed Form I-485 on or after 30 July 2007 and it is still pending. You must also be returning to the US after temporary foreign travel. In this case, you may file your I-131 with your I-485. Or you can submit your I-131 later. You will then need to submit a copy of your I-797 to show you paid your I-485 fee.

Ways to fill out and submit Form I-131:

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Travel on Advance Parole: FAQs

Applicants for adjustment of status with a pending I-485 application are eligible to receive an Advance Parole travel document, which enables them to travel internationally without the need of an underlying visa while they wait for their green card to be approved. If you have received Advance Parole on the basis of a pending adjustment of status application, you may be considering the following:

Is the Advance Parole supposed to be issued as a combination card with the EAD if I apply for both at the same time?

Historically, if the I-765 and I-131 applications for the EAD and Advance Parole were filed concurrently, USCIS would approve both applications at the same time and issue an EAD/AP “combo card” that could be used for both work authorization and travel. This combo card looks identical to an EAD card, but printed at the bottom of the card is the phrase “SERVES AS I-512 ADVANCE PAROLE.”

However, in the past year, it has been common for USCIS to approve the I-765 application first, and the I-131 several months later, even if the applications were filed simultaneously (this appears to be a response to the pressure to improve EAD processing times). When the 2 applications are approved separately, the EAD card is issued without the “I-512” endorsement printed at the bottom. The Advance Parole, when approved on its own, would be issued in the form of a full-page document called the I-512L, printed on heavy paper (similar to an original I-797 approval notice) with the applicant’s photograph at the bottom. When the applications are approved separately, it is important that the applicant not use the standalone EAD card for international travel – it will not be accepted by CBP without the “SERVES AS I-512” endorsement. Instead, if the full-page original I-512L document should be used as the travel document.

When I enter the U.S. using Advance Parole, my electronic I-94 record lists a one-year validity period. Do I need to extend the I-94 prior to that end-date?

No. Unlike the I-94 for nonimmigrant status, which needs to be extended before the end-date, the I-94 that you are issued when entering on Advance Parole does not need to be extended. The “DA” class of admission indicates that you are an adjustment of status applicant, and you are in a period of authorized stay as long as the I-485 application remains pending. The one-year duration listed on the I-94 is standard, and no action needs to be taken prior to that end-date.

When I enter the U.S. using Advance Parole, what is my status? If I have an unexpired approval notice for nonimmigrant status, such as H-1B or H-4 with EAD, can I be considered in that status and work based on it?

This is a bit of a grey area. As mentioned above, upon entering the United States using your Advance Parole, you are considered an adjustment of status applicant, and your most recent I-94 indicates that. However, USCIS has stated that those who entered the U.S. on Advance Parole can have their valid, unexpired H or L status extended through an extension of status application filed with USCIS. Adjustment of status applicants may therefore reactivate their nonimmigrant status via an extension of status application, without the need of travel out of the U.S. Travel to Mexico or Canada could also be a quick way to reactivate prior nonimmigrant status in the absence of a valid visa stamp, through automatic revalidation . It is recommended to discuss with a business immigration attorney about your work authorization options when returning to the U.S. using Advance Parole, if you cannot or don’t intend to use an adjustment-based EAD.

How can I expedite processing of a pending I-131 application?

The options to expedite a pending application for Advance Parole are unfortunately quite limited. At this time, there is no premium processing option for the I-131 application, and USCIS typically reserves expedited processing requests for extremely urgent or unusual situations. If there is an emergency or humanitarian need for travel, assistance may also be requested from the applicant’s Congressional representative’s office. For long-pending cases, federal court litigation may also be an option.

If I am granted emergency Advance Parole, how long is it valid for?

Advance Parole that is granted in response to an approved expedite request will usually only be valid for the amount of time it takes to attend the emergency situation. Rather than the typical 2-year validity period, an emergency Advance Parole may only be valid for 1 month or several weeks.

If I travel while my I-131 application is pending, will it be denied?

Yes, USCIS policy currently states that departing the U.S. while an Advance Parole application is pending can result in abandonment and denial of the I-131 application. Applicants who travel while their I-131 application is pending therefore must be prepared to return using their nonimmigrant status, including applying for a visa stamp from a U.S. consulate while abroad, if necessary.

Upon returning to the U.S., the I-131 application can be re-filed, even if the first application remains pending and has not yet been denied. A denied I-131 application will not have an adverse effect on the overall adjustment of status application, or the ability to apply for Advance Parole again.

If my pending I-131 was approved while I was outside the U.S., can I use it to return to the U.S.?

No. Despite USCIS’s policy of denying I-131 applications when the applicant departs the U.S., there are a small percentage that are approved while the applicant is outside the United States. If that is the case, USCIS can still later consider the Advance Parole issued in error, and the entry based on it invalid .

What documents do I need to carry when entering the U.S. using Advance Parole?

You should carry the original valid Advance Parole document (either the EAD/AP combo card, or the original I-512L document) and a copy of your I-485 receipt notice, in addition to your passport.

Will my entry at the border take longer if I am using Advance Parole?

There is a possibility that your entry at the border may take slightly longer when presenting the Advance Parole as your entry document. Some CBP officers routinely ask Advance Parole applicants to wait in secondary inspection at the port of entry, so that the basis of the Advance Parole (the pending I-485 application) can be verified. This is standard at some ports of entry and is not cause for alarm. If asked, the traveler should simply state that their Advance Parole is based on their pending I-485 adjustment of status application.

We are committed to assisting our clients with navigating the often lengthy green card process and other challenging immigration matters as an accomplished business immigration law firm  in Houston, Texas. Feel free to contact us or set up a consultation to discuss your specific situation related to your travel plans, and how they may affect your pending applications and work authorization.

By : Rebecca Chen

Rebecca Chen is a Partner at Reddy & Neumann . Her representation includes advising clients throughout the non-immigrant and immigrant visa application process, from initial filing, responding to various requests for evidence, and processing at overseas consulates. Her years of experience in the immigration field have made her a knowledgeable resource for complex business immigration matters.

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Field Offices

USCIS field offices do not allow walk-ins. You must have an appointment to visit an office.

Field offices in the U.S. and its territories provide:

• Interviews for all non-asylum cases (for example, getting a Green Card);
• Naturalization ceremonies; and
• Appointments for information and applicant services that supplement what we provide through our website and by phone (for example, case-specific scenarios that require in-person help).

Office Closures

Offices may close because of inclement weather or unexpected events. We encourage all visitors to check the Office Closings page before traveling to make sure we are open.

Helpful Online Tools :

• Request an appointment online
• Reschedule your biometrics appointment with a USCIS account
• Check your case status
• Check processing times
• Find answers to case questions
• Update or change your address
• File forms online with a USCIS account
• Get technical support for your USCIS account
• Check out your options regarding tasks or immigration paths that you may want to complete
• You can get help with most other issues using our online tools .
• If you need to talk to a representative for another reason and you’re in the United States or a U.S. territory, call the USCIS Contact Center .

Field Office Locator

Locate a USCIS field office. Please refer to your interview or appointment notice to confirm the field office address for your visit. USCIS field offices do not allow walk-ins. You must have an appointment to visit an office.

Search by ZIP code

We accept payments at our field office locations through Pay.gov for the following forms in limited circumstances. Please carefully review the form instructions to determine the appropriate filing location for your application:

• Form I-131, Application for Travel Document ;
• Form I-212, Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal ;
• Form I-694, Notion of Appeal of Decision Under Sections 245A or 210 of the Immigration and Nationality Act ; and
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
• G-884, Request for the Return of Original Documents
• EOIR 29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of a DHS Officer

We do not permit applicants, petitioners, and requestors, and their attorneys or accredited representatives  to physically come to a USCIS field office to make a payment. Instead, the Contact Center will redirect individuals to the forms page verbally and provide the online location of the G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions , to be printed, filled out with the applicant’s credit card information, and mailed to their respective field office with their request.

NOTE:  Applicants filing Form I-131 for emergency advance parole (EAP) need to call the Contact Center to make an appointment, then physically come to a field office to file their application and make any required payment(s).  We will only accept Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, in person only. You should mail payment for all other forms listed above to the appropriate USCIS field office. We accept payments by credit/debit card (with  Form G-1450), and personal and business checks. 

Federal law prohibits weapons like firearms, knives, pepper spray and ammunition at any USCIS facility. Even if you have a permit for a firearm, you cannot bring it to a USCIS building. Please check your purse, briefcase, or bag and remove and safely store these items before your visit. Violators may be subject to fine and/or imprisonment. Please see Title 41, Code of Federal Regulations, Subpart C for more information.

Under USCIS policy cell phone, video, and audio recording, as well as traditional and cell phone photography are all prohibited in USCIS field offices, unless specifically allowed during naturalization ceremonies.

To process applications faster, we may move some of our application work to other field offices. Therefore, you might receive a notice (for example, for an interview or a Request for Evidence) that comes from another field office that has not handled your case before. Please follow the instructions in your USCIS notice. This change does not affect where you will go for your biometric appointment. We will still send you to the closest USCIS application support center. If you have questions about any notice you receive from us, please contact the USCIS Contact Center .

Many people offer help with immigration services. Unfortunately, not all are authorized to do so. While many unauthorized practitioners mean well, some of them are out to scam you. This is against the law and may be considered an immigration services scam. If you need legal advice on immigration matters, make sure the person helping you is authorized to give legal advice. Learn more about avoiding scams and how to protect yourself.

If you are not an attorney and wish to provide the public with immigration services, you must be authorized by the Department of Justice (DOJ)'s Office of Legal Access Programs . When you submit your application package to the DOJ, you must also submit a copy of the package to your local USCIS district office .

There are several ways to provide feedback to USCIS:

• If you are at a USCIS office and feel that you are being mistreated, are unhappy with the service you received, or wish to compliment the staff, you may discuss it with a supervisor or the field office director while you are still at the office. Our leadership takes the feedback we receive seriously.
• Submit fraud, waste, and abuse allegations directly to the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. The contact information is on our Contact Us page and is also posted in the waiting rooms of USCIS field offices.

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Parole Services

The parole system provides specific levels of service to the parolee based on protection of the community and the parolee’s individual needs. Initial supervision and support is intensive. As the parolee demonstrates the ability to successfully reintegrate into the community, supervision and support levels may be reduced. Immediately prior to release on parole, a parolee will be assessed and assigned to one of the following levels of support and supervision:

• Intensive Re-entry Supervision and related services – designed to provide enhanced supervision and support services during the critical transition period from institution to community living.
• Regular Re-entry Supervision and related services – designed for those parolees that require the enhanced services for a shorter period of time.
• Specialized Caseloads – to provide concentrated, intensive services to parolees with special needs, e.g., severe substance abuse, sex offenders, those with mental health problems, those requiring specialized placement and/or parolees heavily involved in gang activity.
• Case Management Supervision – parolees are transitioned to this level when they have demonstrated the ability to function in the community with reduced supervision and services.
• Electronically Enhanced Supervision – at any time a parolee’s supervision may be more highly-structured with the use of a 24-hour electronic monitoring device.
• Subsistence and Personal Care Services – services include but are no limited to out-of-home placement, cash, clothing and transportation assistance, counseling, parenting education and other essential support services.
• Volunteers in Parole (VIP) – the Parole Services and Community Corrections Branch contracts with the California State Bar Association to provide volunteer attorneys who serve as mentors to parolees.