What is a Travel Document?

A travel document is an official government-issued document that allows international travel. Depending on your immigration status, you may need different types of travel documents to re-enter the United States lawfully. Typical documents include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or a nonimmigrant visa, along with valid and unexpired travel documentation.

Types of Travel Documents and Application Procedures

Use Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, for the following travel permit documents:

1. Reentry Permits: Use Form I-131 for reentry into the U.S. after traveling abroad, essential for maintaining your residency status.
2. Refugee Travel Documents: For those with refugee or asylum status needing to travel internationally.
3. TPS Travel Authorization Documents: For Temporary Protected Status holders to travel and return to the U.S.
4. Advance Parole Documents: Allows individuals with pending applications like Form I-485 or Form I-589 to return to the U.S. without a visa.
5. CNMI Long-Term Resident Travel Documents: Specific for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands residents.

Application for Carrier Documentation with Form I-131A

If you are a lawful permanent resident or conditional resident who lost, had stolen, or destroyed your travel documents, or if they were damaged while outside the U.S., Form I-131A facilitates your return without penalizing the carrier.

Emergency Travel Considerations

In urgent cases, you can request expedited processing of travel documents by contacting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at least 45 days before your intended departure. For emergencies requiring you to travel within 15 days, USCIS may issue an emergency travel document at a local field office.

Document Requirements for Travel

• Completed Form I-131, applicable filing fees, and proof of eligibility.
• Evidence of critical need for travel and two passport-style photos.
• All non-English documentation must include a full certified English translation.

Advance Parole Document

Advance parole allows you to travel back to the United States without applying for a visa. An advance parole document does not replace your passport. Advance parole is most commonly used when someone has a pending:

• Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status, or
• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal.

Refugee Travel Document

USCIS issues refugee travel documents to people with refugee or asylum status and to lawful permanent residents who obtained their Green Cards based on their refugee or asylee status. If you have a refugee or asylee status, or you are a derivative asylee or refugee, you must have a refugee travel document to return to the United States. If you do not obtain a refugee travel document before you leave the U.S., you may be unable to re-enter the United States, or you may be placed in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.

Re-entry Permit

If you plan to be outside the United States for one year or more, a re-entry permit is necessary to re-enter the U.S. without needing a returning resident visa.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Travel Document

A TPS travel authorization document is crucial for TPS beneficiaries planning to travel abroad and return to the U.S. It is important to note that this document does not guarantee re-entry, which is determined by CBP officers at the point of entry.

Legal Assistance with Travel Documents

For guidance on obtaining the appropriate travel documents and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration policies, contact Najib Hakimi Law PLLC. Our experienced immigration attorney can provide you with personalized advice and assistance throughout the application process. Contact us today by filling out the online form or calling us at (+1)360-390-3936 to schedule a Consultation.