This page displays the current processing times for Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) under Service Center Operations (SCOPS). USCIS no longer provides separate processing times for individual service centers; instead, all service center cases are reported under SCOPS. The data shown here is updated regularly based on official USCIS processing time reports.

Current I-131 Processing Time

Recently Approved I-131 Cases

SEE MORE

If you are a green card applicant, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee in the United States, there may be times when you need official permission to travel abroad and return without losing your status. That’s where Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, comes in. Understanding this form is crucial because traveling without it could cause your application to be abandoned or your legal status to be put at risk.

What is Form I-131?

Form I-131 is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request a travel document. Depending on your situation, it can serve different purposes:

• Advance Parole: For those with a pending green card application (Form I-485). It allows you to leave the U.S. temporarily and return without abandoning your application.

• Re-Entry Permit: For permanent residents (green card holders) who plan to remain outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years.

• Refugee Travel Document: For refugees or asylees who need permission to travel abroad and return.

Who Should File Form I-131?

You should consider filing Form I-131 if you fall into one of these categories:

• Pending Green Card Applicants (AOS): If you filed Form I-485 and want to travel before approval, you must apply for Advance Parole. Leaving without it will result in USCIS treating your case as abandoned.

• Green Card Holders: If you intend to spend extended time outside the U.S. (typically 1–2 years), you should file for a Re-Entry Permit to avoid being considered as having abandoned your residency.

• Refugees or Asylees: If you were granted refugee or asylum status and want to travel abroad, you need a Refugee Travel Document to re-enter the U.S. legally.

How to File Form I-131

Step 1: Complete the Form

You can download Form I-131 directly from the USCIS website. Fill it carefully based on the type of travel document you are applying for (Advance Parole, Re-Entry Permit, or Refugee Travel Document).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• A copy of a government-issued ID (passport, green card, or driver’s license).

• Proof of pending I-485 (if applying for Advance Parole).

• Two passport-style photos.

• Supporting evidence for the type of request (e.g., explanation of travel necessity).

Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee

As of 2025, fees vary:

• Advance Parole: $575

• Re-Entry Permit: $660 (includes biometrics fee)

• Refugee Travel Document: $135–$220 depending on age

(Fee amounts are subject to USCIS updates, so always check the latest fee schedule before filing.)

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Mail the completed Form I-131 with supporting documents and fee payment to the correct USCIS lockbox address (based on your category and state of residence).

Step 5: Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

For re-entry permits and some Advance Parole cases, USCIS requires fingerprints and biometrics. You’ll receive a notice to attend an appointment at a local Application Support Center.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Traveling before approval: If you leave the U.S. without Advance Parole while your I-485 is pending, your application will be denied as abandoned.

• Not applying early enough: Apply at least 6 months before planned travel, since processing can be slow.

• Incorrect category selection: Choose the correct type of travel document (Advance Parole, Re-Entry, or Refugee Travel Document).

• Missing supporting documents: Incomplete applications are a leading cause of delays or rejections.

Form I-131 is more than just a travel form—it’s your safeguard to maintain legal immigration status while traveling abroad. Whether you’re a green card applicant, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, understanding how and when to file is essential.

Next: I-485 processing time

Related Posts

✔ Contacting congressman for expedited request

✔ Current green card priority date for India

✔ I-485 processing time for family-based

Related Topics