Can I Travel While My Green Card Is Under Process?

When applying for a green card in the United States, many people wonder, "Can I travel while my green card is under process?" Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be challenging, especially with the uncertainty of the steps necessary to ensure that your green card application remains valid. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the process of traveling while your green card is being processed, including the critical role of travel permits and advance parole.

What is a Travel Permit?

A travel permit, also known as an Advance Parole document, is crucial for green card seekers wanting to travel overseas during the application process. If you don't have this document, your green card application could be voided by leaving the United States. This license enables individuals to go abroad and come back to the United States without interrupting their immigration process. It protects individuals who may have to travel for personal, professional, or emergency purposes as they await approval of their green card.

What is USCIS Form I-131?

Form I-131, also called the Application for Travel Document, is the required form to request a travel permit. This form is utilized for asking for various kinds of travel papers, such as:

• Permit for re-entering.
• Document for refugees to travel
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel permit document
• Travel document for advance permission

What is Advance Parole?

To expand on the above information, advance Parole is a travel document that permits you to re-enter the United States without applying for another visa or affecting your green card application. It is especially beneficial for applicants who have a pending permanent residence application, status adjustment, or asylum. Here’s why Advance Parole is important:

• Protects Your Application: Leaving the U.S. without an Advance Parole will terminate your green card application. This document ensures your application remains active even if you travel.
• Convenience: Applying for Advance Parole when submitting your green card application means you're prepared for unexpected travel needs, such as family emergencies or business opportunities.
• Peace of Mind: An approved travel document allows you to leave the country without fear of jeopardizing your immigration status.

How to Apply for a Travel Document

Applying for a travel document can be straightforward if you follow the right steps:

1. Include with Initial Application: The easiest way to apply for a travel document is to include Form I-131 as part of your initial green card application package. Along with Form I-130 and Form I-485, you submit Form I-131, attaching a copy of your photo identification and two passport-sized photos. If filed together, there is no additional fee for the travel document.
2. After Initial Submission: You can still apply for a travel document separately if you’ve already submitted your green card application. You need to file Form I-131, including a copy of your photo ID, two passport-sized photos, and a copy of the receipt notice from USCIS showing that your green card application was received. In this case, a $630 fee is required.

Can I Return to the United States with a Travel Document?

Once your application for a travel document is approved, it usually takes about 150 days or sometimes longer for the document to arrive. It's crucial to note:

• Do Not Leave Without It: You must have the approved travel document in hand before leaving the U.S. Otherwise, your green card application will be terminated.
• Time Constraints: While the travel document is typically valid for one year and can be renewed, staying out of the U.S. for extended periods is not advisable. You must be present for essential appointments such as fingerprinting and the green card interview.
• Stay Informed: Arrange for someone to monitor your mail for USCIS notices while you’re abroad. This ensures you don't miss any critical communications regarding your application.

Ready to Address Your Immigration Needs?

Now that we've explored "Can I travel while my green card is under process," it's time to connect with a trilingual immigration law firm. If you reside in Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Tamarac, Parkland, Deerfield Beach, Sunrise, Oakland Park, Fort Lauderdale, and Plantation, the Law Office of 360 Immigration Law Group is here for you. We offer complimentary consultations in Portuguese, Spanish, and English to help you navigate your rights and options effectively. Contact us today at 954.667.3660 to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards securing your future.