What Is A Travel Document Number For USCIS? Your Guide

Travel Document Number for USCIS: Your comprehensive guide, provided by TRAVELS.EDU.VN, explains what this crucial identifier is, why it’s essential for your immigration journey, and how to locate it. Understanding this number is vital for seamless travel and accurate communication with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), streamlining your immigration processes, including advance parole and reentry permits. Let TRAVELS.EDU.VN simplify your understanding of USCIS travel documents.

1. Understanding the USCIS Travel Document Number

The USCIS travel document number, also known as a permit number, is a unique identifier assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to various travel documents issued to foreign nationals. These documents allow individuals to travel outside the United States and return without jeopardizing their immigration status or pending applications. Understanding the significance of this number is crucial for anyone navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration.

What is a USCIS Travel Document?

A USCIS travel document is an official authorization that allows certain individuals, such as Green Card holders, asylum seekers, or those with pending adjustment of status applications, to travel abroad and re-enter the United States legally. The type of document required depends on the individual’s immigration status and the purpose of their travel.

Here are some common types of USCIS travel documents:

• Advance Parole Document: Allows individuals with pending adjustment of status applications (Green Card applications) or those with certain nonimmigrant statuses to travel abroad and return to the United States without abandoning their applications.

• Refugee Travel Document: Issued to refugees and asylees who do not have a valid passport from their country of origin and need to travel internationally.

• Reentry Permit: Allows lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to stay outside the United States for up to two years without jeopardizing their permanent resident status.

• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Travel Authorization: Permits individuals with TPS to travel outside the United States and return, subject to certain conditions.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in facilitating international travel for individuals with specific immigration statuses or circumstances, ensuring they can maintain their legal status in the United States.

Alt: USCIS form I-131 Application for Travel Document example showing advance parole document for aliens.

What is the USCIS Travel Document Number?

The USCIS travel document number is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to each travel document. It serves as a specific identifier for that document within the USCIS system. This number is essential for tracking, verifying, and processing immigration-related applications and requests.

Why is the Travel Document Number Important?

The travel document number is critical for several reasons:

• Identification: It uniquely identifies a specific travel document, allowing USCIS to quickly and accurately retrieve relevant information.
• Verification: It enables USCIS and other government agencies, such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to verify the validity and authenticity of the travel document.
• Application Processing: It helps USCIS link the travel document to the individual’s immigration file and pending applications, ensuring efficient processing.
• Travel Authorization: It serves as proof that the individual has been authorized to travel outside the United States and return without jeopardizing their immigration status.

Where to Find the Travel Document Number

The location of the travel document number may vary depending on the type of document. However, it is typically found on the front or first page of the document, prominently displayed.

• Advance Parole Document: Look for the number in the upper right-hand corner of the document, labeled as “Permit Number.”

• Refugee Travel Document: The number is usually located on the biographical data page, near the photograph.

• Reentry Permit: The number can be found on the front page of the permit, near the top.

• TPS Travel Authorization: The number is typically located on the upper right-hand corner of the document.

It is essential to carefully examine your travel document to locate the number accurately. If you are unsure where to find it, consult the instructions provided with the document or contact USCIS for assistance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When dealing with the USCIS travel document number, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or complications in your immigration process. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Incorrect Entry: Ensure that you enter the travel document number correctly on all forms and applications. Double-check each digit and letter to avoid errors.
• Using the Wrong Number: Be careful not to confuse the travel document number with other numbers on the document, such as the receipt number or alien registration number.
• Misplacing the Document: Keep your travel document in a safe and easily accessible place. Losing the document can cause significant delays and require you to apply for a replacement.
• Traveling Without the Document: Always carry your travel document with you when traveling outside the United States. Failure to present the document upon re-entry could result in denial of admission.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient immigration process.

TRAVELS.EDU.VN Can Help You Navigate Travel Documents

At TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we understand the complexities of navigating USCIS travel documents. Our experienced team can provide expert guidance and support to help you understand your rights and responsibilities, avoid common mistakes, and ensure a seamless travel experience.

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2. Advance Parole Documents: A Detailed Guide

Advance Parole is a crucial document for individuals with pending immigration applications, allowing them to travel outside the U.S. and return without jeopardizing their status. This section delves into the specifics of Advance Parole, clarifying who needs it, how to apply, and what to expect.

Who Needs Advance Parole?

Advance Parole is primarily for individuals in the United States who have pending applications for:

• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485, Green Card application)
• Asylum (Form I-589)
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

If you are in one of these categories and plan to travel abroad, obtaining Advance Parole is essential to ensure your return to the U.S. is not compromised. Without it, your pending application could be considered abandoned.

How to Apply for Advance Parole

The process for applying for Advance Parole involves several key steps:

1. Form I-131: You must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS. This form is available on the USCIS website.

2. Supporting Documents: Include copies of documents that support your need for Advance Parole, such as:

   • A copy of your Form I-797C, Notice of Action, for your pending application (e.g., I-485, I-589, TPS).
   • Evidence of the urgent humanitarian reason or significant public benefit that warrants your travel (if applicable).
   • Two passport-style photos.
   • A copy of a government-issued photo identification.

3. Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee, which can be found on the USCIS website. You can pay by check, money order, or credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.

4. Mailing: Mail the completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS Service Center, as indicated on the form instructions.

5. Biometrics Appointment (If Required): USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photograph, and signature.

6. Approval and Document Issuance: If your application is approved, USCIS will issue an Advance Parole document, which you must carry with you when you travel.

Important Considerations for Advance Parole

• Validity Period: The validity period of an Advance Parole document varies but is typically limited to one year. Be sure to check the expiration date before you travel.

• Multiple Entries: Some Advance Parole documents allow for multiple entries into the U.S., while others are for single use only. Verify the number of entries permitted on your document.

• No Guarantee of Admission: Even with Advance Parole, admission to the U.S. is not guaranteed. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry will make the final determination.

• Emergency Travel: If you have an urgent need to travel outside the U.S. due to a medical emergency or other critical situation, you may request expedited processing of your Advance Parole application.

• Abandonment of Application: Traveling outside the U.S. without Advance Parole can lead to the abandonment of your pending adjustment of status or other immigration applications.

Advance Parole vs. Visa

It’s important to understand the difference between Advance Parole and a visa:

• Advance Parole: Allows certain individuals with pending immigration applications to re-enter the U.S. without abandoning their application. It is not a visa and does not grant any specific immigration status.

• Visa: A document issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate that allows a foreign national to travel to the U.S. for a specific purpose, such as tourism, work, or study.

Recent Updates to Advance Parole Policy

USCIS occasionally updates its policies regarding Advance Parole. It’s important to stay informed about any changes that may affect your application or travel plans. Consult the USCIS website or an experienced immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information.

For instance, recent policy updates may include changes to processing times, eligibility criteria, or document requirements. Staying informed ensures you comply with the latest guidelines and avoid potential issues.

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• Consultation: Expert guidance on whether you need Advance Parole and how to apply.
• Application Assistance: Help with completing Form I-131 and gathering supporting documents.
• Expedited Processing: Assistance with requesting expedited processing for emergency travel situations.
• Policy Updates: Keeping you informed about the latest USCIS policies and procedures.

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3. Refugee Travel Documents: Everything You Need to Know

Refugee Travel Documents are essential for refugees and asylees residing in the United States who need to travel internationally. This section outlines the purpose, eligibility, application process, and important considerations for obtaining a Refugee Travel Document.

What is a Refugee Travel Document?

A Refugee Travel Document is a passport-like document issued by USCIS to refugees and asylees who do not have a valid passport from their country of origin. It allows them to travel outside the United States and return without jeopardizing their refugee or asylee status.

Who Needs a Refugee Travel Document?

You need a Refugee Travel Document if you:

• Have refugee or asylee status but are not a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder).
• Are a derivative asylee or refugee (i.e., you obtained your status through a parent or spouse).

If you fall into one of these categories and plan to travel abroad, you must obtain a Refugee Travel Document before you leave the U.S. Failure to do so may result in denial of re-entry or placement in removal proceedings.

Applying for a Refugee Travel Document

The application process for a Refugee Travel Document involves the following steps:

1. Form I-131: File Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS.

2. Supporting Documents: Include the following documents with your application:

   • A copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, showing your refugee or asylee status.
   • Evidence of your refugee or asylee status (e.g., approval notice, court order).
   • Two passport-style photos.
   • A copy of a government-issued photo identification.

3. Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee, which can be found on the USCIS website.

4. Mailing: Mail the completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS Service Center, as indicated on the form instructions.

5. Biometrics Appointment (If Required): USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment.

6. Approval and Document Issuance: If your application is approved, USCIS will issue a Refugee Travel Document.

Important Considerations for Refugee Travel Documents

• Validity Period: A Refugee Travel Document is typically valid for one year. Check the expiration date before you travel.
• Travel Restrictions: You cannot use a Refugee Travel Document to travel to the country you fled from to obtain refugee or asylee status, unless you obtain a waiver from USCIS.
• No Guarantee of Admission: Even with a Refugee Travel Document, admission to the U.S. is not guaranteed.
• Lost or Stolen Document: If your Refugee Travel Document is lost or stolen, you must report it to USCIS immediately and apply for a replacement.

Understanding the Differences

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between a Refugee Travel Document and other travel documents:

Document	Purpose	Eligibility
Refugee Travel Document	Allows refugees and asylees to travel internationally.	Refugees and asylees who do not have a valid passport from their country of origin.
Advance Parole	Allows individuals with pending immigration applications to re-enter the U.S.	Individuals with pending applications for adjustment of status, asylum, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
Reentry Permit	Allows lawful permanent residents to stay outside the U.S. for up to two years.	Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).

Alt: Refugee Travel Document Biographic Page example.

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• Consultation: Expert advice on whether you need a Refugee Travel Document and how to apply.
• Application Assistance: Help with completing Form I-131 and gathering supporting documents.
• Travel Advice: Guidance on travel restrictions and other important considerations.
• Replacement Assistance: Support with reporting a lost or stolen document and applying for a replacement.

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4. Reentry Permits: Maintaining Your Green Card Status

A Reentry Permit is a crucial document for Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) who plan to stay outside the United States for an extended period. This section provides a comprehensive guide to Reentry Permits, including eligibility, application process, and essential considerations.

What is a Reentry Permit?

A Reentry Permit allows Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) to stay outside the United States for up to two years without jeopardizing their permanent resident status. It serves as evidence that you did not intend to abandon your residency.

Who Needs a Reentry Permit?

You need a Reentry Permit if you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) and you:

• Plan to stay outside the United States for more than one year.
• Wish to avoid potential issues when re-entering the U.S. after an extended absence.

Without a Reentry Permit, you may face challenges when returning to the U.S., as a CBP officer may question your intent to maintain your permanent residency.

How to Apply for a Reentry Permit

The application process for a Reentry Permit involves the following steps:

1. Form I-131: File Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS while you are physically present in the United States.
2. Supporting Documents: Include the following documents with your application:
   • A copy of your Green Card (Form I-551).
   • Two passport-style photos.
   • Evidence of your intent to return to the U.S. after your temporary absence (e.g., employment letter, property ownership documents).
3. Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee, which can be found on the USCIS website.
4. Mailing: Mail the completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS Service Center, as indicated on the form instructions.
5. Biometrics Appointment: USCIS will require you to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This must be completed while in the U.S.
6. Approval and Document Issuance: If your application is approved, USCIS will issue a Reentry Permit.

Key Considerations for Reentry Permits

• Physical Presence: You must be physically present in the United States when you file Form I-131 and when you attend the biometrics appointment.
• Validity Period: A Reentry Permit is typically valid for two years from the date of issuance.
• Extensions: You cannot extend a Reentry Permit. If you need to stay outside the U.S. for longer than two years, you must apply for a new permit.
• Tax Obligations: As a Lawful Permanent Resident, you are required to file U.S. taxes, even if you reside outside the U.S.
• Maintaining Residency: To maintain your permanent resident status, you must demonstrate that you intend to return to the U.S. and that your ties to the U.S. remain strong.

Maintaining Your Residency

Here are some ways to demonstrate your intent to maintain residency while abroad:

• Maintaining a U.S. address.
• Filing U.S. taxes.
• Maintaining U.S. bank accounts.
• Owning property in the U.S.
• Having family members residing in the U.S.

Risks of Staying Too Long

Staying outside the United States for an extended period without a Reentry Permit can have serious consequences, including:

• Loss of your Lawful Permanent Resident status.
• Inability to re-enter the U.S.
• Difficulty naturalizing as a U.S. citizen.

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TRAVELS.EDU.VN provides comprehensive support for Lawful Permanent Residents seeking Reentry Permits. Our services include:

• Consultation: Expert advice on whether you need a Reentry Permit and how to apply.
• Application Assistance: Help with completing Form I-131 and gathering supporting documents.
• Residency Guidance: Advice on how to maintain your permanent resident status while abroad.
• Tax Information: Resources for understanding your U.S. tax obligations as a permanent resident.

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5. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Travel Authorization

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Travel Authorization allows individuals with TPS to travel outside the United States and return. This section outlines the requirements, application process, and important considerations for obtaining TPS Travel Authorization.

What is TPS Travel Authorization?

TPS Travel Authorization allows individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to travel outside the United States and be inspected and admitted back into the U.S., provided they remain eligible for TPS.

Who Needs TPS Travel Authorization?

You need TPS Travel Authorization if you have been granted TPS and you:

• Plan to travel outside the United States temporarily.
• Wish to ensure you can return to the U.S. without jeopardizing your TPS status.

Without TPS Travel Authorization, you may be denied re-entry into the U.S. or risk losing your TPS status.

Application Process for TPS Travel Authorization

The application process for TPS Travel Authorization involves the following steps:

1. Form I-131: File Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS.

2. Supporting Documents: Include the following documents with your application:

   • A copy of your TPS approval notice (Form I-797).
   • A copy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
   • Two passport-style photos.
   • Evidence of your need to travel outside the U.S. (e.g., medical emergency, family visit).

3. Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee, which can be found on the USCIS website.

4. Mailing: Mail the completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS Service Center, as indicated on the form instructions.

5. Biometrics Appointment (If Required): USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment.

6. Approval and Document Issuance: If your application is approved, USCIS will issue a TPS Travel Authorization document.

Important Considerations for TPS Travel Authorization

• Validity Period: The validity period of a TPS Travel Authorization document is typically tied to the validity period of your TPS status.
• Continuous Residence: To maintain your TPS status, you must have continuously resided in the United States since the date specified in the TPS designation for your country.
• Criminal History: If you have a criminal record, you may not be eligible for TPS Travel Authorization.
• No Guarantee of Admission: Even with TPS Travel Authorization, admission to the U.S. is not guaranteed. A CBP officer will make the final determination at the port of entry.
• Re-registration: You must re-register for TPS during each designated registration period to maintain your status and eligibility for travel authorization.

Travel with TPS

Here are some tips for traveling with TPS Travel Authorization:

• Carry your TPS Travel Authorization document, EAD, and TPS approval notice with you at all times.
• Be prepared to answer questions from CBP officers about your trip.
• Ensure you return to the U.S. before your TPS Travel Authorization document expires.

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• Consultation: Expert advice on whether you are eligible for TPS Travel Authorization and how to apply.
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• Re-registration Support: Assistance with re-registering for TPS during designated registration periods.
• Legal Guidance: Legal advice on how to maintain your TPS status and avoid potential issues.

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6. I-131A: Application for Carrier Documentation

Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), is used by Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who have lost their Green Card or Reentry Permit while outside the United States. This section provides a comprehensive guide to Form I-131A, including eligibility, application process, and important considerations.

What is Form I-131A?

Form I-131A allows an airline or other transportation carrier to board an LPR who has temporarily been outside the United States and whose Green Card or Reentry Permit has been lost, stolen, or destroyed.

Who Needs to File Form I-131A?

You need to file Form I-131A if you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) and you:

• Are outside the United States.
• Have lost your Green Card or Reentry Permit, or it has been stolen or destroyed.
• Need to return to the U.S. but do not have your Green Card or Reentry Permit.

How to Apply with Form I-131A

The application process for Form I-131A involves the following steps:

1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for filing Form I-131A.
2. Complete Form I-131A: Fill out Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), accurately and completely.
3. Pay the Fee: Pay the required filing fee, which can be found on the USCIS website.
4. Submit Your Application: Submit your completed Form I-131A and supporting documents to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
5. Interview: You may be required to attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
6. Approval: If your application is approved, the U.S. embassy or consulate will issue carrier documentation, allowing you to board a flight or other transportation carrier to return to the U.S.

Required Documents

Include the following documents with your Form I-131A application:

• A copy of your passport.
• Evidence of your Lawful Permanent Resident status (e.g., a copy of your Green Card, if available).
• A police report if your Green Card or Reentry Permit was stolen.
• A sworn statement explaining how your Green Card or Reentry Permit was lost, stolen, or destroyed.
• Two passport-style photos.

Important Considerations for I-131A

• Fee Payment: You must pay the filing fee for Form I-131A, even if you previously paid the fee for Form I-131.
• Interview: Be prepared to answer questions about your Lawful Permanent Resident status and the circumstances surrounding the loss, theft, or destruction of your Green Card or Reentry Permit.
• Limited Validity: Carrier documentation issued based on Form I-131A is typically valid for a limited period, usually 30 days.
• Not a Green Card Replacement: Carrier documentation is not a replacement for your Green Card. Once you return to the U.S., you will need to apply for a replacement Green Card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.

What to Do After Approval

After your Form I-131A is approved and you return to the United States, you should:

• Apply for a replacement Green Card by filing Form I-90 with USCIS.
• Keep a copy of your carrier documentation with you until you receive your replacement Green Card.

How TRAVELS.EDU.VN Can Assist You

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• Consultation: Expert advice on whether you need to file Form I-131A and how to apply.
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• Embassy/Consulate Coordination: Assistance with coordinating your application with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Form I-90 Assistance: Help with applying for a replacement Green Card after you return to the U.S.

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7. Navigating Travel with a Pending Green Card Application

Traveling with a pending Green Card application requires careful planning and adherence to specific USCIS guidelines. This section provides essential information for individuals seeking to travel while their Green Card application is being processed.

Understanding the Risks

If you have a pending Green Card application (Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status) and leave the United States without the appropriate travel documentation, you may be considered to have abandoned your application. This means you may not be allowed to re-enter the U.S., and your pending Green Card application could be denied.

Who Needs Advance Parole?

If you have a pending Green Card application, you generally need to obtain Advance Parole before traveling outside the United States. Advance Parole allows you to re-enter the U.S. without abandoning your pending application.

How to Obtain Advance Parole

To obtain Advance Parole, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS. Include the following documents with your application:

• A copy of your Form I-797C, Notice of Action, for your pending Green Card application.
• Evidence of the urgent humanitarian reason or significant public benefit that warrants your travel (if applicable).
• Two passport-style photos.
• A copy of a government-issued photo identification.

Important Considerations

• Validity Period: The validity period of an Advance Parole document varies but is typically limited to one year.
• Multiple Entries: Some Advance Parole documents allow for multiple entries into the U.S., while others are for single use only.
• No Guarantee of Admission: Even with Advance Parole, admission to the U.S. is not guaranteed.
• Emergency Travel: If you have an urgent need to travel outside the U.S. due to a medical emergency or other critical situation, you may request expedited processing of your Advance Parole application.

Alternatives to Advance Parole

In some limited circumstances, you may be able to travel outside the United States without Advance Parole and still maintain your pending Green Card application. These circumstances include:

• H-1B or L-1 Status: If you are in valid H-1B or L-1 status, you may be able to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter using your H-1B or L-1 visa, provided you maintain your status and have a valid visa.
• APO/FPO Travel: If you are a member of the U.S. military or a civilian employee of the U.S. government stationed outside the U.S., you may be able to travel without Advance Parole under certain circumstances.

Understanding the Risks

Traveling without Advance Parole or a valid H-1B or L-1 visa can have serious consequences, including:

• Abandonment of your pending Green Card application.
• Denial of re-entry into the U.S.
• Placement in removal proceedings.

How TRAVELS.EDU.VN Can Assist You

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• Consultation: Expert advice on whether you need Advance Parole and how to apply.
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• Travel Planning: Guidance on how to travel safely and avoid potential issues.
• Legal Representation: Legal representation if you encounter problems at the port of entry.

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8. Understanding Unlawful Presence and Travel Documents

Unlawful presence in the United States can have significant implications for your ability to obtain a travel document and re-enter the country after traveling abroad. This section provides a comprehensive overview of unlawful presence and how it may affect your immigration status.

What is Unlawful Presence?

Unlawful presence refers to the period when a foreign national is present in the United States without being admitted or paroled, or after their authorized period of stay has expired.

Consequences of Unlawful Presence

Accruing unlawful presence can have severe consequences, including:

• 3-Year Bar: If you accrue more than 180 days but less than one year of unlawful presence, you may be barred from re-entering the United States for three years.
• 10-Year Bar: If you accrue one year or more of unlawful presence, you may be barred from re-entering the United States for ten years.
• Permanent Bar: If you accrue one year or more of unlawful presence and then depart the U.S. and subsequently re-enter or attempt to re-enter without being admitted, you may be permanently barred from re-entering the United States.

How Unlawful Presence Affects Travel Documents

If you have accrued unlawful presence, you may be found inadmissible if you seek admission after a departure from the United States, even if you have a travel document. This means that even if you have a valid Advance Parole document, Refugee Travel Document, or Reentry Permit, you may still be denied re-entry into the U.S.

Advance Parole and Unlawful Presence

Traveling on Advance Parole does not automatically waive any prior periods of unlawful presence. However, under certain circumstances, it may not trigger the 3-year or 10-year bar.

Exceptions and Waivers

There are certain exceptions and waivers that may allow you to overcome the unlawful presence bars. These include:

• Waiver of Inadmissibility: You may be able to apply for a waiver of inadmissibility if you are otherwise eligible for a visa or Green Card.
• Voluntary Departure: If you depart the U.S. voluntarily before formal removal proceedings are initiated, you may avoid the 3-year or 10-year bar.

How TRAVELS.EDU.VN Can Assist You

TRAVELS.EDU.VN provides comprehensive support for individuals with unlawful presence issues. Our services include:

• Consultation: Expert advice on how unlawful presence may affect your immigration status and ability to obtain a travel document.
• Waiver Assistance: Help with applying for a waiver of inadmissibility.
• Legal Representation: Legal representation in removal proceedings.

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9. Emergency Travel and USCIS Documents

Emergency travel situations can arise unexpectedly, requiring individuals with pending immigration applications or specific statuses to travel outside the United States urgently. This section provides information on how to handle emergency travel situations and the USCIS documents you may need.

Expedited Processing

If you have an urgent need to travel outside the United States due to a medical emergency, family crisis, or other critical situation, you may request expedited processing of your USCIS application.

How to Request Expedited Processing

To request expedited processing, you must contact the USCIS Contact Center and provide evidence of your emergency situation. Evidence may include:

• Medical records.
• Death certificates.
• Police reports.
• Letters from doctors or other professionals.

USCIS will review your request and determine whether to expedite your application based on the severity of the emergency and the availability of resources.

Emergency Advance Parole

If you need to travel urgently and do not have time to wait for the normal processing of an Advance Parole application, you may be able to obtain Emergency Advance Parole from a local USCIS office.

How to Obtain Emergency Advance Parole

To obtain Emergency Advance Parole, you must visit a local USCIS office and provide evidence of your emergency situation and your pending immigration application. USCIS will review your request and determine whether to grant you Emergency Advance Parole.

Carrier Documentation

If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) and you lose your Green Card or Reentry Permit while outside the United States, you may be able to obtain carrier documentation from a U.S. embassy or consulate to allow you to return to the U.S.