Form Purpose
The I-131 requests permission for temporary international travel or reentry. It covers Advance Parole, Reentry Permits, and Refugee Travel Documents and provides official evidence of authorization when USCIS approves the request.
A properly completed I-131 documents authorized travel and helps preserve pending immigration benefits; it reduces the risk of application abandonment, denial, or travel disruption and provides formal evidence of permission to return when approved by USCIS.
Typical filers include permanent residents, adjustment applicants, and refugees seeking travel documents; attorneys and accredited representatives often prepare or review filings.
Employers, schools, and travel providers may request copies; retain filings and notices for records and verification when travel is planned.
The I-131 requests permission for temporary international travel or reentry. It covers Advance Parole, Reentry Permits, and Refugee Travel Documents and provides official evidence of authorization when USCIS approves the request.
Applicants must select the correct category and provide supporting evidence: adjustment applicants for Advance Parole, permanent residents for reentry permits, and refugees/asylees for travel documents; eligibility depends on current status and prior admissions.
Attach passport pages, required passport-style photos, proof of status such as I-94 or green card, and letters explaining the travel purpose. Omissions commonly cause Requests for Evidence or processing delays.
Signatures should match government ID. The main form generally uses a wet signature; supporting affidavits or third-party statements may require notarization or RON depending on state rules and document type.
USCIS accepts paper filings to designated lockboxes and may permit limited online filing for certain categories; follow USCIS form instructions for the correct mailing address or electronic submission path.
Approval of an I-131 provides travel authorization, but Customs and Border Protection determines admissibility at entry. Only travel after receiving written authorization and the travel document.
| Form Field | Platform Configuration Settings | Field Name | Setting |
|---|---|
| Signer Authentication and Access Controls | Signer identity | Email or SMS code with optional MFA |
| Notarization and Remote Options | Notary requirements | Enable RON or in-person notary |
| Field Pre-fill and Validation | Auto-detect fields | Use Magic fields and conditional rules |
| Document Format and Retention | File format | PDF/A with secure storage and audit trail |
Online submission workflows require supported file types, signer authentication, and integration with storage or case management for secure transfer and tracking.
Submit application well in advance of planned departure.
Attend biometrics appointment when scheduled by USCIS.
Processing varies by service center and case specifics.
USCIS may accept expedite requests in limited circumstances.
Wait for written authorization or travel document before departure.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | No | No | No | No |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
A lawful permanent resident managing overseas property needed a reentry permit before a six-month trip.
An adjustment applicant needed Advance Parole for overseas medical care scheduled shortly after filing.