Navigating immigration processes can be complex, especially when you need to travel urgently. This guide clarifies when and how you can get a temporary travel document from the U.S. government, focusing on scenarios involving parole, re-parole, and other specific situations.
Travel Documents: An Overview
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, for various travel-related requests. These include:
- Re-entry Permit: For lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who need to travel outside the U.S. for an extended period.
- Refugee Travel Document: For refugees and asylees.
- TPS Travel Authorization Document: For individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
- Advance Parole Document: Allows certain individuals with pending immigration applications (e.g., adjustment of status) to travel abroad without abandoning their application.
- Advance Permission to Travel: For Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term residents.
If you are approved for a travel document while holding TPS, USCIS will issue either Form I-512T (Authorization for Travel by an Alien to the United States) if you are a TPS beneficiary, or Form I-512L (Advance Parole Document) if your initial TPS application is still pending. If you are a TPS beneficiary or have a pending TPS application, you should review Form I-131 instructions.
Understanding Parole and Re-Parole
“Parole” allows individuals who may not otherwise be admissible to enter the U.S. temporarily due to urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. Re-parole is an extension of this status.
Initial Parole Documents
Form I-131 can be used to request parole into the United States for someone currently outside the country. This is based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. These requests may fall under existing programs, such as the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. If granted, you may receive a boarding foil in your passport or a Form I-512L travel document.
Re-Parole
If you are already in the U.S. under parole and need an extension, you can apply for re-parole using Form I-131. If approved, you’ll receive a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, with a new “Admit Until Date” or “Parole Until Date.” DHS has jurisdiction over re-parole requests. This re-parole request may fall under existing programs or process.
Important Considerations for Ukrainians: Ukrainians paroled into the U.S. after February 24, 2022, can apply for re-parole to extend their stay. USCIS encourages eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members to submit their re-parole requests no earlier than 180 days (6 months) before the expiration of their current period of parole. Filing within this window reduces the risk of your parole expiring before a decision is made.
Caution: Submitting a request more than 180 days before expiration may lead to rejection without a refund.
Parole in Place
If you are present in the U.S. without being admitted, you may use Form I-131 to apply for parole in place based on urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit, including requests for military parole in place and the Family Reunification Task Force (FRTF) process.
TPS and Travel
If you have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and want to travel outside the U.S., you must obtain a travel document before leaving. If you travel without advance permission, you risk losing your TPS status. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will determine at its discretion during inspection whether you may be admitted into TPS. Note that if you were previously granted parole, this admission will render you ineligible for a new period of parole (re-parole).
CNMI Long-Term Residents
If you are requesting advance permission to travel for CNMI long-term residents, leaving the CNMI without the document will automatically terminate your status.
How to Apply
Use Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to apply for any of the documents discussed above. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and provide all required documentation.
Need to Expedite Your Request?
If you have an urgent need to travel, see the Expedite Requests page for information on how to request faster processing.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get a temporary travel document is essential for navigating your immigration status and travel needs. Whether you’re seeking parole, re-parole, advance parole for TPS, or another type of travel authorization, the information above can help you understand the process and prepare your application. Always consult official USCIS resources and consider seeking legal advice for personalized guidance.
