People often search for this issue as advance parole, Form I-131, I-131 travel document, emergency advance parole, or expedite I-131. Advance parole is a USCIS travel document that can allow certain applicants (including many adjustment of status applicants) to travel internationally and request reentry, but it does not guarantee admission at the port of entry and travel without the proper document can cause serious problems in some pending cases.
Advance Parole (Form I-131) — USCIS Travel Document and Emergency Requests
Advance Parole (Form I-131) — USCIS Travel Document and Emergency Requests
Advance Parole Details
Advance Parole is a document for certain aliens, who do not have a valid immigrant or nonimmigrant visa, to reenter the United States after traveling abroad. Such aliens must be granted advance parole before leaving the United States. If they have not obtained advance parole prior to traveling abroad, they will not be permitted to reenter the US upon their return.
For Whom Is Advance Parole Appropriate?
Foreign nationals with a pending or approved applications who wish to travel abroad.
Advance Parole Requirements
Aliens in the United States may apply for advance parole if they have:
- an application for adjustment of status pending;
- been admitted as a refugee or have been granted asylum;
- been granted benefits under the Family Unity Program;
- been granted temporary protected status;
- an asylum application pending; and/or
- an emergent personal or bona fide reason to travel temporarily abroad.
Emergency advance parole and expedite requests (Form I-131)
Many people search “emergency advance parole” when they need to travel urgently for a serious reason such as a family medical emergency, death in the family, urgent humanitarian needs, or other time-sensitive circumstances.
In urgent situations, an applicant may request expedited processing or emergency handling of Form I-131 depending on eligibility and the facts. Strong emergency or expedite requests usually include:
- A clear explanation of the urgent need and dates
- Supporting documentation (medical letters, hospital records, death certificate, or other evidence)
- Proof of the pending immigration case and the applicant’s eligibility to request advance parole
Because outcomes are fact-specific, the best approach is to prepare a clean, well-documented request that matches the urgency and shows why faster action is needed.
Important travel warnings: advance parole does not guarantee reentry, and travel can affect pending cases
Advance parole generally allows a person to request parole into the United States, but CBP makes the final decision at the port of entry. Having advance parole does not guarantee admission.
Also, traveling without the correct travel document can create serious problems in certain pending cases. For example, some adjustment of status (I-485) applicants can be treated as abandoning the I-485 if they depart the United States without valid advance parole or another document that permits travel.
Because travel consequences are highly case-specific, the safest approach is to confirm travel eligibility and document requirements before departing.
Frequently asked questions about advance parole (Form I-131)
What is advance parole?
Advance parole is a USCIS travel document issued through Form I-131 that can allow certain applicants to travel internationally and request parole back into the United States.
What is Form I-131 used for?
Form I-131 is used for several travel-document requests, including advance parole. The correct eligibility and category depend on the person’s immigration posture.
Does advance parole guarantee reentry to the United States?
No. CBP makes the final decision at the port of entry. Advance parole generally allows you to request parole, but it does not guarantee admission.
Can I travel while my I-485 is pending?
Many adjustment of status applicants travel using advance parole, but travel rules are fact-specific. Departing without the proper travel document can cause serious problems in some cases.
Can leaving the U.S. without advance parole abandon an I-485?
In many situations, yes. Some I-485 applicants can be treated as abandoning the application if they depart the U.S. without valid advance parole or another valid travel document for their situation.
What is emergency advance parole?
Emergency advance parole refers to urgent travel situations where an applicant requests faster processing or emergency handling based on humanitarian or time-sensitive reasons.
What documents help an emergency or expedite request?
A clear timeline and strong supporting evidence (medical letters, hospital records, proof of death or urgent need, and proof of the pending case) are commonly important.
How long does advance parole take?
Processing times vary. Submitting a complete filing and responding quickly to any USCIS requests can help avoid delays.
What is a combo card (EAD/AP)?
Some applicants receive an employment authorization document (EAD) that also serves as advance parole. Eligibility depends on the underlying filing category.
What should I do if my advance parole is denied?
Denials are fact-specific. The first step is identifying the reason for denial and deciding whether to refile with stronger evidence or pursue another strategy depending on the case posture.
