What Is Form I-131?

Form I-131, Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records

Form I-131, also known as the Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records, is a form issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form allows eligible individuals, such as lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and others, to request a travel document. This can allow them to travel internationally without jeopardizing their immigration status.

If you are planning to leave the United States but do not want to risk losing your immigrant status, contact the Arizona immigration lawyers at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group. Our Phoenix immigration law firm is here to help you take the necessary steps to protect your immigration status while allowing you to achieve your travel goals.

Completing and filing Form I-131 can be complex, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Call our law firm at (602) 910-4040 to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team regarding your potential eligibility. 

What Is Form I-131 Used For?

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is used in U.S. immigration processes to request travel documents, such as a Reentry Permit, Refugee Travel Document, TPS Authorization Document, or Advance Parole. These documents allow individuals to travel outside the United States and return without jeopardizing their immigration status.

Refugee Travel Document

A Refugee Travel Document, issued through Form I-131, allows individuals with refugee or asylum status in the U.S. to travel abroad and return without losing their protected status. This document is crucial for refugees and asylees who need to leave the U.S. temporarily but wish to maintain their eligibility for reentry and continued asylum or refugee status upon their return. This document is valid for up to 1 year and should be filed no less than 60 days before the person leaves the United States

Advance Parole Document

An Advance Parole Document, also obtained through Form I-131, grants temporary permission for individuals with pending immigration applications to reenter the U.S. after traveling abroad. These include applications such as adjustment of status or lawful permanent resident status applications. It ensures that these individuals will not have their immigration process interrupted by leaving the country.

However, it’s important to note that an advance parole document cannot be used in place of a passport or visa. 

TPS Travel Authorization Document

Individuals with temporary protected status (TPS) can use Form I-131 to apply for a TPS Travel Authorization Document, which permits them to travel outside the United States and return lawfully. Those with temporary protected status can no longer travel using an advanced parole document, and need a TPS travel authorization document in order to travel. 

Reentry Permit

A Reentry Permit, which can be obtained through Form I-131, allows lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to travel outside the U.S. for extended periods without abandoning their permanent resident status. It is typically issued for up to two years and ensures that a resident can reenter the U.S. without facing complications upon return, even after a prolonged absence.

Arrival/Departure Records

Form I-131 also allows immigrants currently residing in the U.S. to request Arrival/Departure Records for Parole-in-Place. These records are used to document an individual’s entry and exit in cases involving parole in place, which is a form of humanitarian relief for family members of U.S. military personnel.

These records help establish the individual’s immigration status while remaining in the U.S. under parole, ensuring that they are not considered unlawfully present. They can also be used for requesting re-parole in situations where a person’s parole period is about to expire.

Form I-131 vs Other Citizenship and Immigration Services Documents

While similar to other immigration documents, there are key differences between Form I-131 and other immigration forms. Below are some of those differences.

Form I-131 vs Form I-131A

Form I-131 is used by individuals, such as green card holders or asylum seekers, to apply for Re-entry permits, Refugee Travel Documents, or Advance Parole, allowing them to travel abroad and return without affecting their immigration status. 

In contrast, Form I-131A is for a lawful permanent resident or conditional permanent resident who needs a travel document to reenter the U.S. after losing their green card, Reentry Permit Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Advanced Parole document, or other form while outside the country.

Form I-131 vs Form I-131F

Form I-131 is used to request travel documents, such as a Reentry permit or Advance Parole, allowing individuals to travel abroad and return to the U.S. without losing their immigration status. 

In contrast, Form I-129F is used by U.S. citizens to petition for a fiancé(e) visa or bring certain eligible family members to the U.S. for marriage or family reunification.  

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Travel Document?

Individuals eligible to apply for a travel document include those with permanent residence, as well as refugees, asylees, and certain individuals with pending immigration applications, such as those awaiting adjustment of status.

Eligibility for Reentry Permits

Green card holders who need to travel abroad for an extended period, typically over one year, can apply for a reentry permit. This document allows those with lawful permanent residence to reenter the United States without risking their green card status. It is especially helpful for those planning prolonged stays outside the country due to work, family, or other personal reasons.

Eligibility for Refugee or Asylum Status Travel Documents

Refugees and asylees in the U.S. who wish to travel internationally may apply for a Refugee Travel Document. This serves as a substitute for a passport and ensures that their return to the U.S. is permitted. Individuals with refugee or asylum status must maintain their commitment to the terms of their status and avoid traveling to the country from which they fled.

Eligibility for Advance Parole

Advance Parole is available to individuals with pending immigration applications, such as those waiting for adjustment of status or applying for temporary protected status. This document allows them to leave and reenter the U.S. without abandoning their application. Advance Parole must be approved before departure, as leaving without it could lead to the denial of the pending application.

Form I-131 Instructions for Filing

USCIS provides a long list of instructions for filing a Form I-131 on their website. These include answers to commonly asked questions and thorough instructions on how to file for various documents using this particular immigration form. If you need help filing your Form I-131, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced immigration lawyer like the ones at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group. 

I-131 Online Filing

Certain parts of Form I-131 can be filed online through the USCIS website if you meet the eligibility requirements. For example, individuals applying for Advance Parole as part of a pending adjustment of status application may submit Form I-131 electronically.

However, not all applications, such as those for Reentry Permits or Refugee Travel Documents, can be filed online and must be submitted by mail. Before filing, it is important to review the USCIS instructions to confirm whether online filing is available for your specific request. Those looking to file portions of their Form I-131 application online can file online here. 

How to Fill Out Form I-131

Filling out Form I-131 involves providing personal information, details about your immigration status, and the type of travel document you are requesting. Below is some information, as well as some helpful resources, you may need while filling out your Form I-131.

I-131 Filing Address

The filing address for Form I-131 depends on the type of travel document you are requesting and your current location. USCIS provides specific mailing addresses for Reentry Permits, Refugee Travel Documents, and Advance Parole applications. Be sure to check the USCIS website or your filing instructions for the correct address, as sending your application to the wrong location can delay processing.

I-131 Processing Time 2025

Processing times for Form I-131 in 2025 vary depending on the type of travel document and the USCIS service center handling your case. Generally, Reentry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents can take 8-12 months to process, while Advance Parole applications may take 6 months to process. 

I-131 Processing Time After Biometrics

After completing the biometrics appointment, the processing of your Form I-131 typically continues based on the USCIS service center’s workload. For most applicants, this step means the USCIS has what it needs to finalize your travel document. While timelines can vary, it usually takes one to three months after biometrics for a decision to be made, depending on the type of document requested.

I-131 Filing Fee

The filing fee for Form I-131 depends on the type of travel document you are requesting and your age. For example, Reentry Permits and Advance Parole documents typically have a fee of $630, while Refugee Travel Documents cost between $165 and $135, depending on the person’s age. Some applicants, such as refugees or asylees, may qualify for a fee waiver. 

Class of Admission I-131 Form

The “class of admission” section on Form I-131 refers to the 3-character code on your green card or visa which indicates the immigration status you held when you were admitted to the United States. This could include lawful permanent resident (LPR), refugee, or parolee. 

This information helps USCIS determine your eligibility for the travel document you are requesting. Be sure to enter the class of admission exactly as it appears on your immigration documents, such as your green card or I-94 form.

How Can Working with a Phoenix Immigration Attorney Help You?

Mistakes or missing information can lead to delays, rejections, or even the denial of your Form I-131 application. That’s where our team at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group comes in. Our experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through every step of the Form I-131 process, ensuring your application is accurate and submitted correctly. 

Phoenix asylum lawyers and immigration attorneys can help clarify eligibility requirements, avoid common mistakes, and address any concerns about your immigration, refugee, or asylee status. If issues arise, we can advocate on your behalf, helping you navigate the legal system with confidence. 

Form I-131 FAQs

I Got My I-131 Approved, What Next?

After your Form I-131 is approved, review it carefully to ensure all details are accurate, keep it with you when traveling, and be aware of any expiration dates or travel restrictions. Ensure you return to the U.S. before the document expires to maintain your immigration status.

How to Apply for Travel Document I-131?

To apply for a travel document using Form I-131, download the form from the USCIS website and carefully follow the instructions. Complete the form with accurate information, attach any required supporting documents, and pay the applicable filing fee. 

Depending on the type of document you are requesting, you may need to mail your application to the correct USCIS filing address or file it online if eligible. After submission, USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment before processing your application.

How Many Times Can I Travel with Advance Parole?

Advance parole allows you to travel multiple times while your document is valid, as long as it is a multiple-entry permit. Be sure to check the terms on your advance parole document, as some are issued for single entry only. Always plan to return to the U.S. before the expiration date to avoid issues with your immigration status.

Contact a Phoenix Immigration Attorney with Ybarra Maldonado Law Group Today

Filing Form I-131 or any immigration application can feel overwhelming, especially when your ability to travel or maintain your immigration status is at stake. At Ybarra Maldonado Law Group, we are committed to helping you understand your options and secure the travel document you need. 

Whether you’re applying for a Reentry Permit, Advance parole, or a Refugee Travel Document, our experienced immigration attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. Our team understands the importance of timely and accurate applications, and we are here to address any questions or concerns you may have. With years of experience in immigration law, we are dedicated to providing personalized support to individuals and families in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Call us today at (602) 910-4040 or contact us via our website to schedule your case evaluation and discuss your legal options with our team.