USCIS I-131 Form: Everything You Need to Know

Form I-131 Explained

What Is I 131 Form?

I-131 is a USCIS form that is used by people who have to leave the country for either personal or professional reasons. This form is also known as the "Application for Travel Document," and it is commonly used by individuals who are in the process of obtaining permanent residency or citizenship.

What Is Form I 131 Used For?

If you have long-term travel plans outside of the country but are not yet a citizen or permanent resident, you might need to fill out the I-131 form to request an advance parole document. You can travel abroad and come back with this document without giving up on your application for citizenship or permanent residency.

Additionally, if you are a permanent resident or citizen and need to travel outside of the United States for an extended period of time, you can use the I-131 form to apply for a re-entry permit. With the help of this document, you are able to maintain your current status as a citizen or permanent resident for up to two years while traveling.

People who have been granted asylum or refugee status and need to travel outside of the United States also use the I-131 form. In this situation, the applicant would have to submit an application for a refugee travel document, also known as an advance parole document.

Where to file I-131?

Depending on the particular kind of travel document you're applying for and where you are right now, the I-131 USCIS form's filing location will vary. Here are the filing instructions for each type of travel document:

Advance Parole Document: If you are currently a resident of the United States and are requesting an advance parole document, you should submit Form I-131 to the USCIS Lockbox facility that handles your state. The USCIS website lists the filing address.

Re-entry Permit: If you are already present in the country and are applying for a re-entry permit, you should submit Form I-131 to the USCIS Lockbox facility that handles your state of residence. The filing address can be found on the USCIS website.

Refugee Travel Document: If you are currently in the U.S. and are filing for a refugee travel document, you should file Form I-131 with the USCIS Lockbox facility that serves the state where you live. The filing address can be found on the USCIS website.

Humanitarian Parole: If you are applying for humanitarian parole from outside the United States, you should submit Form I-131 to the USCIS international office that handles your nation of residence. On the USCIS website, you can find the filing address.

It's crucial to carefully follow the filing instructions for the specific type of travel document you need and make sure your application has all the necessary fees and supporting documentation. It is advised that you speak with a knowledgeable immigration attorney if you have any queries or issues regarding the application process or require help.

Instructions for I-131

To apply for a travel document, such as an advance parole document, a re-entry permit, or a refugee travel document, use the I-131 USCIS form. It's crucial to carefully follow the directions provided by USCIS for filling out the I-131 form if you want your application to be processed as quickly as possible. Here are some general information for form i 131 instructions for completing the form:

1. Download the form: On the USCIS website, you can download the I-131 form. By getting in touch with USCIS, you can also request a paper copy of the form.
   

2. Fill out the form: There are several sections on the I-131 form, including sections for personal information, eligibility information, and application type. Make sure to provide accurate and thorough information in all of the required fields. Consult with an immigration attorney if you are unsure of how to respond to a question.

3. Provide supporting documentation: You may be required to submit additional documentation, such as a copy of your passport, a copy of your I-94 arrival/departure record, or proof of your pending immigration application, depending on the type of travel document you are applying for.

4. Pay the filing fee: The I-131 form has a filing fee that must be paid by check, money order, or credit card. For the most recent fee schedule, visit the USCIS website. The fee amount varies depending on the type of travel document you are applying for.

5. Submit the form: Send the application to USCIS after completing the form and gathering all required supporting documents. Depending on the type of travel document you're applying for, you can do this by mail or online.

6. Wait for a decision: Once your application has been submitted, you must wait while USCIS processes your request. Be sure to check the USCIS website for an estimated processing time because the processing time for i-131 can vary depending on a number of variables.

Note: If you submit a document to USCIS that's written in a foreign language, you need to provide a complete and accurate certified English translation along with it. The translator who provided the translation should also certify that they are proficient in both the foreign language and English. If you have any questions, check our article where we answered all the questions about certified translation.

In conclusion, the I-131 form must be filled out completely and accurately. You can improve your application's chances of success and reduce processing times by adhering to USCIS's guidelines and consulting with a qualified immigration lawyer.

What Documents Do I Need For I 131?

You must submit your application with supporting documents when submitting a USCIS form I-131. Depending on the type of travel document you are applying for, specific supporting documents may be needed. The following is a list of possible supporting documents:

Advance Parole Document

The following supporting documents may be required if you are requesting an advance parole document:

• A copy of your current Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• A copy of your current passport biographic page
• Two passport-style photographs
• Evidence of your pending immigration application, such as a copy of your I-485 application receipt notice or a pending asylum application

Re-entry Permit

You might be required to provide the following supporting documents when requesting a re-entry permit:

• A copy of your current Form I-551 Permanent Resident Card
• Two passport-style photographs
• Evidence of your need to travel outside of the U.S. for an extended period of time, such as proof of employment, education, or family emergency
• Evidence of ties to the U.S., such as proof of property ownership, tax returns, or bank statements

Refugee Travel Document

The following supporting documents may be required if you are requesting a refugee travel document:

• A copy of your current Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• A copy of your refugee status approval notice
• Two passport-style photographs
• Evidence of your need to travel outside of the U.S. for an extended period of time, such as proof of employment, education, or family emergency

Humanitarian Parole

The following supporting documents might be required if you are requesting humanitarian parole:

• Proof of the humanitarian emergency or the compelling reason you're traveling, like a medical certificate or evidence of a family emergency

• Two passport-style photographs

• Evidence of your connection to the U.S. and your intention to re-enter, such as ownership documentation, tax returns, or bank statements

It's critical to carefully read the filing instructions for the particular type of travel document you need in order to make sure your application has all the necessary supporting materials. It is advised that you speak with an experienced immigration attorney if you have any queries or concerns about the supporting documents or require assistance with your application.

How Much Does Form I 131 Cost

Fees for re-entry permits are structured based on age categories and application type when using Form I-131. The filing fee is $575 for people aged 14 to 79, with an additional $85 for biometric services. Applicants aged 13 or younger or 80 or older, on the other hand, are exempt from the biometric services fee, which is $575 without any additional charges. It's critical to double-check the most recent fee schedule on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website before filing, as fee structures can change over time.

You can pay with a credit card, money order, or check. Make checks or money orders payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security" if paying by these methods. If using a credit card, USCIS requires the cardholder to complete Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, and submit it with their application.

In order to avoid having your application rejected by USCIS, it is crucial to include the correct fee amount with your application. You might be qualified for a fee waiver or a reduced fee if you are unable to pay the full amount. For advice on this procedure, make sure to speak with a qualified immigration lawyer.

Translation of Supporting Documents for I-131

If you submit a document to USCIS that's written in a foreign language, you need to provide a complete and accurate English translation along with it. The translator who provided the translation should also certify that they are proficient in both the foreign language and English.

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I-131 Petition Processing Time

How Long Does It Take To Process Form I-131

The volume of applications that USCIS receives and the complexity of each case are a couple of the variables that can affect how quickly the I-131 USCIS form is processed. On their website, USCIS offers monthly updated estimated processing times that can be accessed by choosing the appropriate form and office location.

As of March 2023, the majority of USCIS offices anticipate processing an I-131 form submitted for a re-entry permit to take between 4 and 6 months. However, processing times may vary from one office to another.

Remember that these processing times are only estimates and that actual processing times might change. If additional information or documentation is needed, USCIS may also issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), which can prolong the processing time.

You might be able to submit an inquiry with USCIS to request a status update if you have filed an I-131 form and have not heard back within the estimated processing time. It is also advised that you work with a qualified immigration lawyer who can help you with the application process and give advice on how to handle any delays or problems that may come up.

How Can I Track My USCIS Case Status?

The USCIS online case status tool allows you to check the progress of your I-131 USCIS case. Here are the steps to check your case status:

• Go to the USCIS online case status tool.

• Enter your 13-character case number, which can be found on your application receipt notice. You can enter your USCIS receipt number, which is on your receipt notice, in place of your case number if you don't know it.

• To view the status of your case after entering your case number or receipt number, click the "Check Status" button.

Real-time updates on the status of your I-131 application, including any updates or actions taken on your case, are provided by the USCIS online case status tool. You can ask the USCIS Contact Center for help if your case status has not changed for a significant amount of time or if you have concerns about the status of your case.

It is significant to remember that the USCIS online case status tool is not always up to date and may not reflect the most recent updates on your case. If more information or supporting documentation is needed, USCIS may also issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), which can prolong the processing time. Working with an experienced immigration attorney is advised if you are unsure of the status of your case or are worried about delays. They can help you with the application process and offer advice on how to handle any delays or problems that may come up.

I 131 Approved

What Happens After I-131 Is Approved?

Congratulations on your I-131 USCIS form's approval! Once your application is approved, there are various actions you can take depending on the type of travel document you applied for. Here are some general next steps to consider:

• Receive your travel document: You will receive your travel document by mail from USCIS if you applied for an advance parole or refugee travel document. The travel document will be delivered to the mailing address you listed on your application, if you did. If not, you must get in touch with USCIS to make delivery arrangements.

• Check the validity dates: Once you receive your travel document, be sure to check the validity dates to ensure that you can travel during the designated period. Re-entry permits typically have a two-year validity period, while advance parole documents and refugee travel documents typically have a one-year validity period.

• Plan your travel: Make sure to carefully plan your itinerary for your trip, and always keep your travel documents on hand.

• Renewal of your travel document: If you still need to travel outside of the United States but your travel document is about to expire, you must apply for a renewal.

The renewal procedure is similar to the initial application procedure, and you must complete and submit the I-131 form in the same way. It is advised to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer who can offer direction and assistance if you have any questions about your travel document or the application process, or if you run into any problems with your travel document while traveling.

In conclusion, once your I-131 application is approved, you can leave the country and return without giving up on your pending immigration application. Plan your trip carefully, check the expiration dates on your travel documents, and, if you have any questions or concerns, speak with an immigration lawyer.

I-131 Denied

What Are the Common Reasons for I-131 Denial?

There are a number of reasons why a USCIS I-131 form might be rejected. Here are some common reasons why an application may be denied:

• Incomplete or incorrect application: The application could be rejected if it is incomplete, incorrect, or lacks the necessary supporting documentation.

• Failure to establish eligibility: The application might be turned down if the applicant cannot show that they meet the criteria for the kind of travel document they are requesting. For instance, if an applicant cannot show that they have strong ties to the United States and are likely to return, their application may be rejected.

• Criminal history: An applicant's application might be rejected if they have a criminal history, especially if it includes certain serious offenses.

• Immigration violations: An applicant's application may be rejected if they have broken any immigration laws, such as overstaying a prior visa or being present in the country illegally.

• National security concerns: If granting the travel document raises national security issues, such as if the applicant has ties to a terrorist group or is on a watchlist, the application may be rejected.

If an I-131 application is rejected, the applicant might be able to appeal the decision or make a motion to reopen or reconsider it. In order to determine the best course of action, it is crucial to carefully review the grounds for the denial and speak with a knowledgeable immigration attorney.

FAQ’s on I-131

Can I 131 Be Filed Online?

Yes, you can use the USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS) to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, electronically. However, not all applicants are qualified to submit Form I-131 using USCIS ELIS.

You must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to submit Form I-131 online:

• The form must be submitted from inside of the United States.

• One of the following types of travel documents must be requested:

Advance Parole Document (Form I-512)

Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571)

Reentry Permit (Form I-327)

• A USCIS online account is required.

If you are eligible, you can submit Form I-131 electronically using the USCIS ELIS system. You must register for a USCIS online account, fill out the application form, upload any necessary supporting files, and pay the filing fee online. You can track the progress of your application through USCIS ELIS and get notifications electronically.

If you are not qualified to submit Form I-131 online via USCIS ELIS, you must submit a paper application by mail. The USCIS website contains the filing guidelines for paper applications.

How To Expedite I-131 Application?

You can ask for expedited processing of your I-131 application if you need it by getting in touch with USCIS. The steps you can take to ask for expedited processing are listed below:

Contact USCIS: You can get in touch with USCIS by phone or by scheduling an InfoPass appointment at a nearby USCIS office. To demonstrate that your situation qualifies for expedited processing, you will need to provide the justification for the expedited request as well as any necessary supporting documentation.

Provide documentation: To support your request for expedited processing, you must provide supporting documentation. This could be evidence of a medical condition, a financial hardship, or an emergency. If your situation qualifies for expedited processing, USCIS will review your documentation and make that determination.

Follow up with USCIS: Following the submission of your request for expedited processing, you should check in with USCIS to see how things stand. It's important to respond quickly to any requests because USCIS may contact you for more information or documentation.

The USCIS has the authority to approve or deny requests on a case-by-case basis, so it is important to keep in mind that expedited processing is not guaranteed. Additionally, not all travel document types may be eligible for expedited processing. You can still proceed with regular processing and get a decision on your application within the typical processing times even if your request for expedited processing is rejected.

Why Is My I-131 Taking So Long?

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, processing times can change based on a number of variables. The following are some typical causes for your I-131 application taking longer than anticipated:

Increased demand: The number of applications submitted to USCIS may rise, which could result in slower processing times. This frequently occurs when USCIS is implementing changes to immigration laws or during peak travel times.

Security checks: All applicants for travel documents must undergo security checks by USCIS. Your application might need additional security checks, which could extend the processing time, if you have a complicated immigration history or a criminal record.

Missing or incomplete documentation: If your application is missing or incomplete, USCIS may issue a request for evidence (RFE) or a notice of intent to deny (NOID). The processing time may be extended by responding to these requests.

Changes in USCIS policies: The processing times for all types of applications, including I-131 applications, can be impacted by changes in USCIS policies or procedures.

Administrative errors: USCIS may make mistakes in processing your application, such as misplacing it or failing to give it to an officer for review.

You can check the USCIS website for the most recent processing times and get in touch with USCIS for more details if the processing of your I-131 application is taking longer than you anticipated. If you have a strong reason to travel right away, you might also think about asking for expedited processing.

Can I File I-131 With I-485?

Yes, you may submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. In order to prevent processing delays, it is actually advised that you submit both applications at the same time.

If you are applying for adjustment of status, you may also be eligible to file Form I-131 along with your I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This is due to the fact that both forms can be submitted using the same qualifications and supporting materials.

When submitting your I-131 application along with your I-485, make sure to include all necessary documents and filing fees. Additionally, you should carefully read and adhere to the directions provided with each form as the conditions and processes might change.

It's crucial to understand that submitting an I-131 application doesn't ensure you'll be issued a travel document. Your immigration status, your travel itinerary, and your motivations for traveling will all have an impact on whether you qualify for a travel document.

Can I Travel With I-131 Approval Notice?

While your physical travel document is being processed and mailed to you, you might be able to travel abroad if you have received an approval notice for Form I-131. Although it is not a travel document, the approval notice is proof that your application was accepted.

You must present your I-131 approval notice to the relevant authorities along with your passport and any other necessary travel documents in order to travel using it. Depending on the nation you are visiting and the type of travel document you requested, the specific steps for traveling with an I-131 approval notice may change.

You should check the entry requirements of the country you are visiting before you travel because some may have specific requirements for visitors with accepted or pending immigration applications. Additionally, you should speak with an immigration lawyer or get in touch with USCIS if you have any questions about traveling with an I-131 approval notice.

How Long Can I Stay Abroad With I-131?

For reentry, you will require a re-entry permit if you intend to spend more than a year but less than two years abroad. When you submit the Form I-131 to apply for the permission, you must be physically present in the country.

Can I Apply For I 131 Abroad?

Yes, you can submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, while abroad. The application can be submitted through a US embassy or consulate, or through the USCIS international offices. Filling out the form, providing necessary documentation, and following the specific instructions outlined by USCIS for applicants applying from outside the United States are typical steps in the process. It's advisable to check the USCIS website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance on the application process and any additional requirements for applying from abroad.

Can I Travel While I 131 Is Pending?

You can travel while your Form I-131 (re-entry permit) application is pending, but you must have a valid travel document, such as a visa or advance parole, to re-enter the United States without jeopardizing the status of your application. However, if you leave the country before receiving your re-entry permit, your application may be considered abandoned, necessitating a reapplication and additional fees. Before making any travel plans while your Form I-131 is still pending, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney or contact USCIS for advice specific to your circumstances.

In conclusion, the I-131 USCIS form is crucial for people who must travel outside of the country for either personal or professional reasons. It is crucial to carefully read the instructions and supply all of the necessary information, whether you are applying for an advance parole document, a re-entry permit, or a refugee travel document, to make sure that your application is processed as soon as possible.

“We collected and distilled information on immigration for our site visitors from USCIS and other sources as a basic guide. MotaWord is a translation platform providing certified translations for immigration applicants and not a law firm. The information provided should not be construed as legal advice and might not be current. For current information please refer to the USCIS website or speak to your licensed immigration attorney.”