How to file form I-131
Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is used to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel or advance parole. Re-entry can be applied for in cases of a resident living outside U.S., an asylee or a refugee.
Re-entry is when a permanent resident or conditional permanent resident can live and travel outside the U.S. for more than a year without losing their immigrant status. Refugee travel is when a person is in the U.S. on a valid refugee or asylee status and needs to travel outside the U.S. for a given period. Advance parole is when a person wants to travel before their green card application has been approved.
Steps to File Form I-131
1. The applicant fills out Form I-131.
2. The applicant attaches the following required documents:
- Filing fee (this may vary depending on the type of travel purpose chosen), made payable by check or money order to “Department of Homeland Security”
- Two passport-style photographs
- A copy of a photo identity document (with photo, name, and date or birth) such as a passport or driver’s license
- A copy of the document showing the present status in the U.S., such as a copy of the current or expired visa or approval notice for DACA or TPS
- If filing Form I-131 separately from the green card, TPS, or asylum application, a copy of Form I-797C, Notice of Action, showing that the earlier application was either accepted for processing or approved
- Evidence showing the reasons and/or necessity to travel, if necessary
3. The applicant must file Form G1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, to receive an e-notification when the Form I-131 has been accepted. Clip it to the front of the application.
4. The application must submit Form I-131 with the Form I-797 approval notice.
5. The applicant then sends Form I-131 with the required package to:
(Using U.S. Postal Service)
USCIS
P.O. Box 5757
Chicago, IL 60680-5757
OR
(Using USPS Express Mail/Courier)
USCIS
Attn: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
131 S. Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
