How to Apply for Travel Documents
A travel document allows a legal U.S. resident to leave the U.S. for an extended duration, up to two years, without losing their legal status. There are three different types of travel documents: the Advance Parole Document, the Refugee Travel Document and the Reentry Permit. Each document is used for a specific purpose.
Steps to Apply for Travel Documents
1. The applicant determines which travel document they require.
There are three types of travel documents:
- Reentry Permit: Allows a permanent resident or conditional resident to apply for admission to the U.S., upon returning from abroad without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Refugee Travel Document: Allows a person in valid refugee or asylee status (or a refugee- or asylee-based green card holder) to apply for admission to the U.S. upon returning from abroad without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Advance Parole Document: Allows a person who legally resides in the U.S.to apply for admission to the U.S. upon returning from abroad without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate. Advance parole is typically granted when an application to adjust status or register permanent residence is being processed.
2. The applicant files Form I-131 attaching all the required documents.
The applicant may use any of the currently available versions of the form. If the application is for an Advance Parole Document, submit it online on the USCIS website. It cannot be filed online if the application is based on an approved request for consideration of deferred action for childhood arrival
3. The applicant includes the filing fee along with the application.
The application fees are as follows:
- For Reentry Permit: Application fee $360, plus $85 for biometrics if the applicant is aged 14-79.
- For Refugee Travel Document: Application fee is $135 (for applicants aged 16 and above) and $105 (for applicants less than 16 years of age), plus $85 for biometrics if the applicant is aged 14-79.
- For Advance Parole Document: Application fee is $360. No biometric fee is required.
4. The applicant awaits confirmation from USCIS.
If the applicant has attached a completed Form G-1145, Notification of Acceptance of Application/Petition, with the application, they will receive an email/text message, when their application has been accepted.
