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Home » Guide to Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

Form i-131 overview for:, form i-131 explained, what is form i-131 used for.

Certain non-citizens can file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , to obtain various travel documentation. The application has different uses depending on the non-citizen's immigration status in the United States. When filing, applicants may request the following types of travel documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

Reentry Permit

Refugee travel document, advance parole travel document, humanitarian parole.

Form I-131 is different than Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation). Permanent residents use Form I-131A to obtain travel authorization after losing a green card or reentry permit while traveling outside the United States.

Eligibility to Apply for a Travel Document

Who needs form i-131.

Eligibility to file Form I-131 is dependent on the travel document type. Each travel document has specific criteria. In some cases, immigration status may also affect filing requirements. CitizenPath's Travel Document Package is an online service created by immigration attorneys. It's an affordable way to confirm eligibility and prepare the application correctly.

Permanent residents who anticipate an absence from the United States or one year or more should generally apply for a Reentry Permit. A green card is typically sufficient to reenter the U.S. after trips of less than one year. However, there is a presumption that you've abandoned your permanent residence when the absence is one year or more. A Reentry Permit helps mitigate this problem. With the exception of having to obtain a returning resident visa abroad, a reentry permit does not exempt you from compliance with any of the requirements of U.S. immigration laws. In other words, it is still important that you haven't taken actions that suggest you've abandoned your green card. Learn more about Reentry Permits >>

Individuals with asylum or refugee status generally must have a Refugee Travel Document to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad. In most cases, a refugee or asylee may use the Refugee Travel Document for travel in place of a passport. This is helpful because many lack a passport from their home country. In fact, the Refugee Travel Document is similar in appearance to a U.S. passport. Permanent residents, who obtained such status as an asylee or refugee, may also need a Refugee Travel Document in place of a passport. Learn more about Refugee Travel Documents >>

Advance Parole

Non-citizens who are in the United States (typically waiting for a more permanent immigration status) may be able to request Advance Parole. If eligible, Advance Parole is necessary to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad.

Although there are other eligible status, individuals with a pending Form I-485 (adjustment of status applicants) and recipients of Temporary Protected Status, use Advance Parole for brief trips. Generally, if you have applied for adjustment to that of a permanent resident, USCIS will deem your application abandoned if you leave the United States without first obtaining Advance Parole. When issued in combination with an Employment Authorization Card, Advance Parole is issued directly on the card (as pictured). Learn more about Advance Parole >>

I-131 Online Filing Options

Can form i-131 be filed online.

At this time, there is no way to submit Form I-131 to USCIS electronically, but you can prepare the form with an online service to make sure you prepare it correctly.

USCIS has not introduced online filing for this form. Regardless, e-file doesn't necessarily mean you get quick processing. If you are interested a quick approval, focus on submitting a well-prepared application package. It’s the difference between saving a couple of days with online filing versus saving several weeks with smooth processing. What’s more, USCIS is not your advocate. They are not looking out for your best interests. If you include information that damages your immigration future, USCIS isn’t going to correct you.

For people who want to make sure they are preparing the application correctly, CitizenPath offers an affordable service created by immigration attorneys. CitizenPath’s Travel Document Package will make the application easy and give you alerts if there’s a problem. You’ll also receive detailed filing instructions so you know exactly which supporting documents to submit with your application. CitizenPath even provides a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application for a travel document.

Form I-131 Instructions

How do i fill out i-131.

CitizenPath's easy-to-use website helps you prepare the application quickly and accurately. Our online service provides step-by-step I-131 instructions to make it easy. We even give you a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application.

If you prefer to fill out the Form I-131 PDF, you can download instructions from USCIS or follow this summary of directions.

General Guidance

• Type or print answers in black ink only. 
• Enter “N/A” if an answer is not applicable and "NONE" if your answer is zero.
• Foreign language documents must be accompanied by a full English certified translation .
• Submit your application with the current USCIS filing fee . Use a personal check, money order, cashier’s check or use Form G-1450 to pay by credit card.
• Submit photocopies for all supporting documents unless an original document is specifically required.
• For Information About You , answer the general questions about name, address and birth. Carefully indicate how you were admitted to the United States or your current status that makes you eligible for a travel document.

Parts 2, 3, and 4

• For Application Type , select which type of travel document you are requesting. Your choices are very limited based on your immigration status. In rare situations, such as humanitarian parole, you may provide information about yourself in the remainder of the section.
• For Processing Information , supply answers regarding your intended travel, removal proceedings, and previous travel documents. Disposition is an explanation of what happened to the previously issued travel document. Speak to an immigration attorney before traveling outside the United States if you are in removal proceedings or have accrued any time in an unlawful presence. If you are requesting a Reentry Permit or Refugee Travel Document, you may provide address information if you wish that it be delivered abroad instead of your U.S. address.
• For Information About Your Proposed Travel , describe the purpose of the trip and which countries you intend to visit. Generally, there are no restrictions for permanent residents requesting a Reentry Permit for temporary travel. However, individuals who have (or have had) asylum or refugee status should avoid traveling back to their country of claimed persecution. Speak to an attorney first. Likewise, some Advance Parole applicants -- such as DACA -- are limited to specific reasons for travel.

Parts 5, 6, and 7

• For If Applying for a Re-entry Permit , complete the section only if you are requesting a Reentry Permit. Your past time outside the United States may affect the term of your new travel document. Speak to an attorney if you ever considered yourself a "nonresident" during your time as a green card holder.
• For If Applying for a Refugee Travel Document , complete the section only if you are requesting a Refugee Travel Document. Again, any asylee or refugee generally should not travel to their country of claimed persecution. If you must travel to that country, speak to an immigration attorney first.
• For If Applying for Advance Parole , complete the section only if you are requesting an Advance Parole Travel Document. Indicate if the document should be valid for a single use or multiple trips. Again, in limited circumstances, you may provide information about an overseas U.S. embassy or DHS office if the person intended to receive the document is abroad.

Parts 8 and 9

• For Applicant's Statement , sign your application with black ink. A surprising number of I-131 rejections are the result of applicants forgetting to sign or signing in the wrong place. Provide an email and U.S. phone numbers where USCIS can reliably reach you. USCIS will rarely call applicants, but they will use email.
• For Preparer , provide information if applicable. If you prepared your Form I-131, it’s only necessary to sign as the “applicant.” If another person prepared the application for you, be sure Part 9 is filled in and signed appropriately.

This is an abbreviated list of Form I-131 instructions. We highly recommend that you download USCIS instructions or use CitizenPath’s service to prepare the application. CitizenPath provides filing instructions customized to your situation. You’ll get detailed I-131 instructions that explain which supporting documents to submit, how to organize, and where to mail.

Filing Addresses for the Application

Where to file form i-131.

USCIS accepts the I-131 application via mail only. They do not want applicants to submit the form in-person at USCIS offices. USCIS has numerous filing addresses. The address depends on various factors such as the basis of eligibility, travel document type, and U.S. state of residence. For the most up-to-date address, refer to your CitizenPath filing instructions or use the USCIS I-131 direct filing addresses .

Although USCIS receives your application package at these locations, they will process them somewhere else. If you have an interview (rare), it will be at a USCIS field office near the home address you provide.

Form I-131 Processing Time

How long does it take to get a travel document.

USCIS is reporting I-131 processing times in excess of one year at their service centers. Check USCIS processing times for the latest estimates. The best way to ensure a smooth process and quick processing time is to prepare a complete and problem-free application. For this reason, CitizenPath customers generally experience the best processing times for USCIS travel documents.

Expedited processing of a travel document is available in certain situations. For a detailed description of plausible reasons and how to communicate your urgent need, see our article on expedited processing for travel documents .

Reporting for processing times only includes forms that were successfully filed. If an individual does not correctly prepare a form or otherwise does not satisfy eligibility requirements, USCIS will reject or deny these requests. For the most recent year, USCIS reported the following national statistics:

USCIS Rejections in 2023

MODERATE RISK

USCIS Denials in 2023

How citizenpath helps you, is there an inexpensive way to file the i-131 application.

CitizenPath's affordable, online service makes it easy to prepare Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. Designed by immigration lawyers, the Travel Document Package helps you eliminate the common errors that create delays, rejections and even denials. That's because the service alerts you when your answer to a question may be a problem. You'll also get customized filing instructions based on your situation. It's a powerful, do-it-yourself tool that puts you in control. And we've got your back -- CitizenPath provides live customer support and provides a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application. Get started >>

Form I-131 Questions and Answers

The USCIS filing fee to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, can vary significantly based on the type of travel document, age, and eligibility category. Use our pricing tool to determine your filing fee .

Generally, adjustment of status applicants may file I-131 "concurrently" with Form I-485 . Concurrently means that you can submit them together. This is the best way to get quick processing.

You may also file Form I-131 after filing Form I-485, but you'll need to wait until you receive the I-485 receipt notice. You'll need the receipt number so that USCIS can link the cases.

Generally, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, from inside the United States. The granting of an Advance Parole Document for individuals outside the United States is an extraordinary measure used sparingly to allow an otherwise inadmissible non-citizen to travel to the United States and to seek parole into the United States for a temporary period of time due to urgent humanitarian reasons or for significant public benefit. Seek the advice of an immigration attorney if you are outside the United States and feel the need to file Form I-131.

You should apply for a Refugee Travel Document or Reentry Permit before you leave the United States. However, the travel document may be sent to a U.S. embassy, U.S. consulate, or DHS office abroad for you to pick up, if you make such a request when you file your application. Departure from the United States before a decision is made on the application usually does not affect the application decision. However, if biometrics collection is required and the applicant departs the United States before biometrics are collected, the application may be denied.

Permanent residents who are outside the United States for less than one year and lost a green card, may be able to file Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), to obtain temporary document to return to the U.S.

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I-131: Application for Travel Document

What is form i-131.

Any non-U.S. citizen traveling outside the United States must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document with the exception of permanent residents.

Immigrant/non-immigrant Visa Holders

• Foreigners with immigrant or non-immigrant visas must file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• Traveling within the United States do not require Form I-131.

Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

• If travel duration is less than 2 years , permanent residents are not required to file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• If travel duration is longer than 2 years , permanent residents must file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• Please note that for Permanent Residents who lose their green card while traveling outside of the United States, they must use Form 131A, Application for Travel Documents (Carrier Documentation) to obtain a reentry permit.

It is important applicants properly submit Form I-131 as failure to file I 131 may prevent the applicant from re-entering the country. When submitting, there are three types of travel documents for applicants:

• For green card holders who want to be outside of the United states for 1 year or more, they must apply for a re-entry permit in order to return to the country. Typically, a green card is enough to pass through customs back into the United States but only if the departure duration is for 1 year or less. Permit is only available for permanent residents and is valid for 2 years .
• This is only available for refugees and asylees who want to travel outside of the United States. Since people with refugee or asylum status do not have passports or green cards, they must apply for this travel document to be able to return to the country. The permit is valid for 1 year .
• Advance parole grants permission to reenter the United States for people who are adjustment of status applicants who are in transition and do not fall within any specific category of status, U visa holders, and those under a protected status. The permit is valid for 1 year .

While the USCIS does not require applicants to wait for approval before leaving the country, applicant should be aware the USCIS may request a fingerprinting appointment (biometrics service). Failing to show up at the appoint may lead to a rejection.

What are Form I-131 Instructions?

Filing fee and instructions for Form I-131 vary depending on the application type and age of the applicant.

Applicants under certain financial circumstances can file a fee waiver form (I-912) to waive the filing and biometric fees. An example of valid circumstance is an individual living at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines . In addition, no additional fee is necessary if the applicant meets one of the following criteria:

• Filing Form I-131 as Application Type B or D
• Filed Form I-485 with a fee after July 29, 2007

Who is Eligible for Form I-131?

Form I-131 is an application for a re-entry permit, or travel document, designed for citizens and permanent residents of the United States. Any individual who has received a green card, or is a citizen of the United States, is eligible to submit Form I-131.

What is the Latest Form I-131 Edition?

The most recent edition of Form I-131 is dated 09/30/20.

What are the Required Documents for Form I-131?

1. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document 2. Copy of your valid nonimmigrant visa (if applicable) 3. Copy of your passport identification page 4. Proof of payment of the filing fee 5. Two passport-style photos 6. Evidence of latest legal status in the U.S. 7. Evidence of relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (if applicable) 8. Evidence of employment authorization (if applicable) 9. Other relevant documentation (as applicable)

How to Submit Form I-131?

Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) is used to apply for various types of travel documents, such as advance parole, re-entry permits, and refugee travel documents. To submit the form, you must first download and print the form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. After completing the form, you must gather supporting documents and submit them along with the form.

Once your form is completed and all the necessary documents are gathered, mail them to the USCIS address listed on the form instructions. Be sure to include the filing fee or an approved fee waiver request. If you require expedited processing, you must also include a request for expedited processing and provide proof of emergency situation. You can also submit your application electronically via USCIS’s e-Filing system.

After the USCIS receives your application, they may contact you if they need additional information or documents. After they complete their review of your application, they will make a decision regarding your request for a travel document.

What are the Filing Tips for Form I-131?

1. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information required for Form I-131.

2. Double check and make sure that all the information and documents you provide are accurate.

3. Make sure that you sign and date the form after completing it.

4. Include supporting documents such as passport photos, travel itineraries, and other supporting evidence of your identity and purpose of travel.

5. Submit your application and fees with certified check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”.

6. Mail your application and supporting documents to the address indicated on the form instructions, or submit online through USCIS ELIS if available to you.

7. Follow up on the status of your application with the processing time indicated on the USCIS website for Form I-131.

Are There Special Instructions for Form I-131?

Yes, there are special instructions for Form I-131. The form is used to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole travel document. Depending on the document you are applying for, there are different instructions and fees you must follow.

You will need to provide evidence of your valid immigration status in the United States, and proof of identity. You will also need to submit proof of a valid purpose for travel and evidence of why you need the travel document. You may be asked to provide additional supporting evidence and documents.

You must also pay the filing fee, which can range from $575 to $575 for a re-entry permit or $575 for a refugee travel document or advance parole travel document. Additionally, if you are applying from outside the United States, you must pay an additional biometrics fee of $85.

When completing the form, you must provide detailed information about yourself and your travels. You must also make sure all information is accurate and truthful; any false or incomplete information may lead to delays or denials in your application.

Once your application is complete and all fees have been paid, you should submit your application to the office listed on Form I-131’s instructions.

What is the Form I-131 Fee?

The Form I-131 Fee is the fee that must be paid when filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The fee for Form I-131 is currently $575, although certain applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduced fee.

Can I Apply for Form I-131 Fee Waiver or Reduction?

Yes, you can apply for a Form I-131 fee waiver or reduction if you meet certain requirements. To be eligible, you must: have a low income and financial hardship, be the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or be an asylum applicant. Additionally, you must provide evidence that the fee would create a significant financial hardship for you or your family. If you meet these requirements, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your application for Form I-131.

What is the Form I-131 Processing Time?

The processing time for Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) can vary depending on the type of travel document you are requesting and your current immigration status. Generally, processing times can range from 3-5 months but can take longer in some cases. Applicants should check the processing times on the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.

Form I-131 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Form I-131? A: Form I-131 is an application form used by non-U.S. citizens to obtain a travel document, such as a re-entry permit, advance parole, or refugee travel document.

Q: Who should file Form I-131? A: Anyone who is not a U.S. citizen and needs to travel outside the United States is required to file Form I-131. This includes people with permanent residence status (green card holders), refugees, and asylees.

Q: How much does it cost to file Form I-131? A: The fee for filing Form I-131 is currently $575 USD, which must be paid with a credit card, debit card, or check.

Q: How long does it take for Form I-131 to be processed? A: The processing time for Form I-131 varies depending on the type of application and the current workload of the USCIS. Generally, it can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months or more for an application to be processed.

Q: What documents do I need to file Form I-131? A: The documents required to file Form I-131 depend on the purpose of your application. Generally, you will need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, proof of your immigration status, such as a green card, and evidence of your travel plans.

Q: Where can I get more information about filing Form I-131? A: The USCIS website has detailed information about filing Form I-131, including instructions and requirements for each type of application. You can also reach out directly to the USCIS if you have any questions about your application.

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USCIS I-131A Application for Travel Document Fee

Before you start the payment process, eligibility.

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

The current filing fee is $575.00

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

Refund Policy

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

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

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

Information You May Need

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

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• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents

Advance Parole, Reentry Permit, and Refugee Travel Documentation for Returning Aliens Residing in the U.S

How to File The alien must file Form I-131, Application for a Travel Document, complete with supporting documentation, photos and applicable fees. This form can be downloaded from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) website. See the application for specific filing instructions.

How to File For a Re-Entry Permit If the alien is a permanent resident or conditional resident, he or she must attach:

• A copy of the alien registration receipt card; or
• If he has not yet received his alien registration receipt card, a copy of the biographic page of his passport and the page of his passport indicating initial admission as a permanent resident, or other evidence that the alien is a permanent resident; or
• A copy of the approval notice of a separate application for replacement of the alien registration receipt card or temporary evidence of permanent resident status.

How to File For Advance Parole An alien in the United States and applying for an Advance Parole document for him or herself must attach:

• A copy of any document issued to the alien by DHS showing present status in the United States;
• An explanation or other evidence demonstrating the circumstances that warrant issuance of Advance Parole.
• If the alien is basing his or her eligibility for Advance Parole on a separate application for adjustment of status or asylum, he must also attach a copy of the filing receipt for that application.
• If the alien is traveling to Canada to apply for an immigrant visa, he or she must also attach a copy of the consular appointment.

How to File For a Refugee Travel Document If the alien is a refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document, he or she must attach:

• A copy of the document issued by DHS showing the alien's refugee or asylee status and indicating the expiration of such status.

Where to File Where to file the Form I-131 depends upon the benefit sought. See the form instruction page for details.

When to File The alien must apply for the travel document before leaving the United States. Failure to do so may cause the alien to lose permission to re-enter the country, and lead to the denial of any other applications.

Form I-131 Travel Application Guide

What is the form i-131 travel application.

Form I-131 is a travel application. This travel document often is used by green card holders.

You can use it to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document or advance parole travel document.

• A Re-entry permit enables a lawful permanent resident or conditional permanent resident (Green Card Holders qualify for both of these categories) to apply to be admitted into the United States, after returning from travel abroad, without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate.
• Individuals who hold asylee or refugee status and are not lawful permanent residents must have a Refugee Travel Document to return to the United States after travel abroad, unless they possess an Advance Parole Document.
• You should apply for a Refugee Travel Document BEFORE you leave the United States.
• This document can authorize you to appear at a port of entry to seek parole into the United States. However, someone who has been “paroled” has not been permanently admitted to the United States and remains an “applicant for admission” even while paroled.
• Although the document may be accepted by a transportation company instead of a visa as permission to travel to the United States, an Advance Parole Document cannot replace a required passport. Most Advance Parole Documents are issued for multiple entries; however; some are issued for single entries.

Form I-131 is Included with SimpleCitizen.

What supporting documents do I attach to Form I-131?

You will need the following documents in order to fill out and submit I-131:

• Your application with the filing fee.
• These include: your current Employment Authorization Document, if available; a valid government-issued driver’s license; passport identity page; Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card; or any other official identity document.
• Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record is not acceptable as a photo identity document.

Document Upload is Included with SimpleCitizen.

Additional Documentation Required for Reentry Permit Application:

• If you have not yet received your Form I-551, a copy of the biographic pages of your passport and a copy of the visa page showing your initial admission as a lawful permanent resident, or other evidence that you are a lawful permanent resident
• A copy of the Form I-797, Notice of Action, approval notice of an application for replacement of your Form I-551 or temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status.

Additional Documentation Required for Refugee Travel Document Application:

• A copy of the document issued to you by USCIS showing your refugee or asylee status and the expiration date of this status.

Additional Documentation Required for Individuals Currently In the U.S.:

• A copy of any document issued to you by USCIS showing your present status, if any, in the United States; AND
• If you are an applicant for adjustment of status, a copy of a USCIS receipt to prove that you filed the adjustment application; OR
• If you are traveling to Canada to apply for an immigrant visa, a copy of the U.S. consular appointment letter; OR
• If USCIS has deferred action in your case under DACA, you must include a copy of the Form I-797 (Notice of Action) showing that the decision on your Form I-821D was to defer action in your case. If ICE deferred action in your case under DACA, submit a copy of the approval order, notice or letter issued by ICE.

Additional Documentation Required for Individuals Outside of the U.S.:

• A detailed description of why you are requesting an Advance Parole Document (urgent humanitarian reasons, significant public benefit reasons), an explanation for the length of time for which parole is requested, and copies of any evidence and documentation that supports the reasoning behind your request.
• Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support)
• A statement explaining why a U.S. visa cannot be obtained, including when and where attempts were made to obtain a visa, or an explanation of why a visa was not sought to enter the United States
• If applicable, a statement explaining why a waiver of inadmissibility cannot be obtained to allow issuance of a visa, including when and where attempts were made to obtain a waiver, and a copy of any DHS decision on your waiver request, or an explanation of why a waiver has not been sought
• A copy of any decision on an immigrant or non-immigrant petition or application filed for an individual seeking to enter the United States, and evidence regarding any pending immigrant or non-immigrant petition or application
• A copy of the biographical page of the beneficiary’s passport or, if it is not available, an explanation why a passport is not available and another government-issued identity document that establishes the beneficiary’s citizenship; and
• Copies of the petitioner’s and Form I-134 sponsor’s official identity documents and evidence of their citizenship or U.S. immigration status (such as a copy of a U.S. passport, lawful permanent resident card, or birth certificate).

What is the processing time for Form I-131?

USCIS does not specify an average processing time for review and acceptance of Form I-131. However, USCIS processes forms in the order in which they are filed, so the sooner you submit your form, the faster it’ll be approved.

What is the Form I-131 mailing address?

You may submit Form I-131 by mail or online to USCIS. The direct filing addresses differ based on the type of travel document for which you are applying and immigration status you hold. You can find direct filing addresses on the USCIS website . For online applications, information about where to send your supporting documentation is provided when you submit your application electronically. You will be provided with a confirmation sheet when you submit your application online and you must place a copy of this confirmation sheet on top of your supporting documentation when you mail it to USCIS.

What is the Form I-131 class of admission?

The Form I-131 class of admission refers to the visa category by which you were admitted as an immigrant to the United States as a permanent resident or conditional permanent resident.

How long does my travel authorization last as granted through Form 1-131?

Travel authorization lasts for different periods of time for the following documents:

• Typically, a Reentry Permit issued to a lawful permanent resident is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. It may not be extended.
• A Refugee Travel Document is valid for 1 year. It may not be extended.
• An Advance Parole Travel Document is valid for up to 1 year. Individuals may be granted a multiple entry or a single entry document.

What is the Form I-131 filing fee? Do I qualify for a fee waiver?

The Form I-131 filing fee ranges from $105 to $575 depending on your age and type of travel application you are requesting. Biometric service appointments are required in all cases and cost either nothing or $85 depending again on your age and type of travel application.  You do not need to pay a fee to file Form I-131 under the following conditions:

• You are filing Form I-131 Application Type B or D.
• You filed a Form I-485 with a fee on or after July 30, 2007.
• Your Form I-485 is still pending.

You may qualify for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c). If you are eligible for a fee waiver, complete and submit Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver) with any required evidence of your inability to pay the filing fee with this application. You can review the fee waiver guidance at https://www.uscis.gov/feewaiver .

What if my documentation is in a language other than English?

Any document containing foreign language must be accompanied by a full English language translation which the translator has certified as complete and accurate. You must also include the translator’s certification that he or she is adequately able to translate from the foreign language into English.

Certified Document Translation is Included with SimpleCitizen.

What do I do after I fill out I-131?

After processing your application for a Reentry Permit, USCIS will inform you in writing when to go to your local Application Support Center (ASC) for your biometrics services appointment. This appointment is to gather physical data by which a person can be uniquely identified. At your biometrics appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, take your photo, and have you sign your name for electronic capture. You must attend the biometrics services appointment in order to finalize your travel authorization. If you do not attend the appointment, your application may be denied.

Ways to fill out and submit Form I-131:

Fill out on a computer.

Download and view in a PDF viewer.

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Form I-131 is included with SimpleCitizen.

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Print & Fill Out Paper Form

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Don’t Forget:

• Upon returning to the United States, most people must present a valid H, L, K, or V nonimmigrant visa for re-entry.

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After having my application accepted, do as IRS class of admission, do I need to present those type of visa mentioned in the don’t forget section?

If you send I 131 you don’t pay the fee what gonna happen

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

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

Travel documents for permanent and conditional permanent residents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LAST UPDATED: May 22, 2024

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WO: Ministerial gifts, hospitality, travel and meetings, January to March 2024

Data on gifts that ministers gave and received, their external meetings and any overseas travel.

Ministers - Gifts

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Ministers - Hospitality

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Ministers - Overseas Travel

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Ministers - Meetings

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WO publishes details of ministers’ meetings with external organisations, gifts (given and received), hospitality and overseas travel on a quarterly basis.

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